Erick Thohir Underlines the Meaning of PSSI Awards 2026, from Players to Grassroots

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir emphasized that the PSSI Awards 2026 is not merely an awards ceremony, but a comprehensive appreciation for all elements contributing to the development of Indonesian Football.

"This stage is to appreciate the heroes on the green field – not only players, but also referees, provincial PSSI officials, sponsors, communities, and many others who continuously work from grassroots to elite football," Erick stated after the event at Emtek Studio 6, Jakarta, Saturday, March 28, 2026.

This awards ceremony marks a historic milestone as the first held since the Football Association of Indonesia was founded 95 years ago. Key figures attended, including Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti, Emtek Group CEO Sutanto Hartono, FIFA representative Sanjeevan Balasingam, National Team Coach John Herdman, and Technical Director Alexander Zwiers.

Erick reiterated that football is a collective effort, noting on-field performance stems from various parties including match officials, regional associations, sponsors, and supporters.

"Therefore, PSSI Awards comes with a warmer, closer, and more down-to-earth spirit by honoring all who keep Indonesian football dreams alive," he said.

Seventeen award categories recognized national football figures. National Team Player Jay Idzes won Men’s Player of the Year, while Marselino Ferdinan earned Men’s Young Player of the Year.

Rizky Ridho received Goal of the Year, and Yance Sayuri claimed Assist of the Year.

Among goalkeepers, Maarten Paes won Best Men's Goalkeeper, while Iris de Rouw secured the women's category.

Safira Ika was named Women’s Player of the Year, with Claudia Alexandra Scheunemann as Women’s Young Player of the Year. Emil Audero earned Saves of the Year.

Among match officials, Thoriq Munir Alkatiri won Referee of the Year, and Fuad Qohar received Assistant Referee of the Year. East Java PSSI Provincial Association was named Best Association.

For development categories, Gala Siswa Indonesia won Football Development Program of the Year, and MilkLife Soccer Challenge secured Grassroots Development Program of the Year.

Special honors went to Setyo Putro Utomo (Man Behind The Jersey of the Year), the late Mas Katon (Supporter of the Year), and Tan Liong Houw through Bakti Sepak Bola Foundation for off-field contributions.