Iwan Setiawan, veteran Indonesian football coach, dies at 68

Indonesian football is mourning the passing of veteran coach Iwan Setiawan, who died on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the age of 68. Born in Medan, North Sumatra, Setiawan was a prominent figure in the national football scene, known for his charismatic and outspoken coaching style.

Throughout his career, Setiawan managed several notable clubs, including PSMS Medan, Borneo FC, Persela Lamongan, Persebaya Surabaya, Sriwijaya FC, and Persija Jakarta. In recent years, he also contributed to the development of the sport as a coaching instructor for various license levels.

Colleagues and football figures expressed their condolences following the news. Rudy Eka Priyambada and Indra Sjafri shared tributes on social media, with Sjafri noting that he had recently been discussing football philosophy with Setiawan.