PSSI officially launched the PSSI Awards 2026 at the Indonesia Sports Summit (ISS) 2025 in Indonesia Arena, Jakarta, on December 6, 2025. This marks the first such event in the federation's 95-year history to honor national football figures. It features 17 categories, including performance awards and special recognitions.
The launch of the PSSI Awards 2026 coincided with the ISS 2025, held on December 6-7, 2025, at Indonesia Arena in Jakarta. According to Garuda Sepakbola Indonesia's CEO Marsal Masita, nominations for nine performance award categories were curated by a panel of journalists, active players, and former coaches, based on empirical data from the national team and I.League. Performance categories include Best Male Player, Best Female Player, Best Male and Female Goalkeeper, Best Young Player, Best Goal, Best Assist, and Best Save.
Additionally, there are eight special recognition categories without public voting, such as Best Referee, Best Assistant Referee, Best Legend, Best Asprov, Best Youth Development, Best Football Development Program, Best Supporter, and Man Behind the Jersey. Public voting for performance categories opens from January 1 to February 28, 2026, online and offline via a dedicated booth at ISS. Winners will be announced in March 2026 alongside the FIFA Series 2026, featuring an official trophy unveiling at the gala night.
Panelist Hermansyah explained the absence of a best coach category, noting it is the first event and adjusted to current formats. Indonesia national team midfielder Thom Haye welcomed the initiative: "I think this is a very good thing. This award gives appreciation and recognition to the players." He added that it shows PSSI's involvement and care for players. Beckham Putra also viewed it as extra motivation to improve performance.
Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir opened ISS 2025, urging Indonesia to become a new force in the global sports industry valued at US$521 billion in 2024. He emphasized collaboration and supportive policies, aligning with President Prabowo's vision. While one source calls it the second edition, most confirm it as the first in PSSI's history.
