Shin Tae-yong and DPD RI Chair advocate for youth football development

Former Indonesian national team coach Shin Tae-yong and the Chairman of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), Sultan B. Najamudin, have emphasized the necessity of structured youth development to advance Indonesian football.

Speaking at the opening of the Blispi Youth Cup V 2026 at Wibawa Mukti Stadium in Cikarang, Shin Tae-yong highlighted that while Indonesia possesses significant talent, the nation requires a sustainable training system and higher-quality coaches for young players. He suggested that involving national football legends in mentoring youth could create a stronger foundation for the sport.

Sultan B. Najamudin supported this sentiment, noting that natural talent must be refined through disciplined training and a supportive ecosystem involving government, schools, and clubs. The tournament, themed ‘From the Regions, Indonesian Football Stars are Born,’ features over 2,000 children and aims to provide regional talents with the access and competition necessary to reach professional levels.