Health Condition Causes Delay in John Herdman's Introduction

The official introduction agenda for John Herdman as the new head coach of the Indonesian national team has been confirmed to be postponed. Chairman of the National Team Agency (BTN) Sumardji revealed that the delay was due to Herdman's less-than-fit physical condition.

Originally, PSSI had scheduled Herdman's official introduction for Monday morning at the Mulia Hotel, Jakarta. However, the event was ultimately rescheduled to take place on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at the same venue.

The rescheduling confirmation was directly conveyed by Sumardji when contacted on Monday. He emphasized that this decision was made to ensure the English coach was fully prepared for the series of official events.

"Postponed until tomorrow due to unfitness," stated Sumardji.

Previously, PSSI had circulated official invitations to media personnel on Sunday, January 11, 2026, afternoon, announcing that the introduction of the Indonesian National Team's New Coach would be held Monday at 08:30 AM WIB at Mulia Hotel. However, on Sunday evening, the federation notified about the schedule change.

"We apologize, the Press Conference for the New Coach of the Indonesian National Team tomorrow (Monday) at Mulia Hotel has been rescheduled," wrote PSSI.

John Herdman himself arrived in Indonesia on Saturday, January 10, 2026, with his extended family, including his wife and two children. His arrival marks the beginning of a new coaching era for the Indonesian national team under the guidance of this internationally experienced coach.

Herdman is widely recognized as the figure who successfully led the Canadian national team to qualify for the World Cup 2022, ending a 36-year drought. This achievement was a primary reason for PSSI appointing him to elevate the Indonesian national team to a more competitive level.

During his official introduction event, Herdman is also scheduled to appear alongside Cesar Meylan, who was recently announced as the Indonesian national team's physical assistant coach. Meylan's presence underscores Herdman's commitment to bringing a coaching staff with shared philosophies and working methods.

The collaboration between Herdman and Meylan isn't new. The pair have worked together for over a decade across the New Zealand women's national team, Canadian women's national team, Canadian men's national team, and Toronto FC. This extensive partnership is expected to form a solid foundation for enhancing the Indonesian national team's physical performance and competitiveness moving forward.