Como 1907 Owner Michael Bambang Hartono Passes Away, Fabregas Mourns

Mourning news envelops Como 1907. One of the club's owners, Michael Bambang Hartono, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Singapore at the age of 86.

The departure of this key figure behind Como's revival leaves profound grief, not only for the family but for all elements of the club. Hartono was recognized as a pivotal figure in the major transformation Como has undergone in recent years.

Through Djarum Group, Michael Bambang Hartono together with his brother Robert Budi Hartono acquired Como 1907 in 2019. Since then, the club which had languished in lower divisions gradually rose and recorded an impressive journey culminating in reaching Serie A.

This transformation is now bearing sweet fruit. Como 1907 has even emerged as one of Serie A's dark horses this season by occupying fourth place in the standings, simultaneously opening opportunities to compete in next season's Champions League.

Como's coach Cesc Fabregas expressed deep condolences over the passing of the figure considered immensely influential to the club.

"I want to publicly state that we've lost someone extremely important to the club and all of us, Michael Bambang Hartono," said Fabregas ahead of Como's match against Pisa on Saturday, March 21, 2026, early morning Western Indonesia Time.

"I wish to convey condolences to the Hartono family for everything they've given to our city and our club," he stated.

Fabregas himself has been part of Como's journey since 2022 when still a player in Serie B. He later served as interim coach then assistant, before finally being entrusted as head coach when the club achieved promotion to Serie A in 2024.

Como 1907's journey from Serie D to now competing in Serie A's upper tier is inseparable from the Hartono brothers' significant role. Michael Bambang Hartono's passing marks a tremendous loss amid the club's rising momentum.