The outstanding achievements of the Indonesian national football team have not only captured the attention of football fans, but also attracted sponsors. This time, Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast has officially partnered with the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) as the Official Electric Vehicle Partner.
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) on February 22, marking a strategic step for both football and the electric vehicle industry in Indonesia.
The MoU was signed by Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, and Marshal Marsita, Director of PT Garuda Sepakbola Indonesia, witnesses by PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir.
Pham emphasized that this partnership is in line with VinFast's expansion strategy in Indonesia, while Marshal welcomed the cooperation as a positive step for the development of Indonesian football.
Powering the Progress of Indonesian Football
VinFast's support goes beyond strengthening the Indonesian national team's preparations for the 2026 World Cup—it also fosters the development of a more independent and professional football ecosystem.
As an official partner, VinFast will be actively involved in various activation programs during the national team's home matches, while also introducing its brand to millions of football fans across Indonesia.
Through this one-year partnership, VinFast has secured exclusive rights as the official sponsor of four-wheeled electric vehicles, including strategic brand placement and intellectual property promotion.
This collaboration marks a significant step for VinFast in expanding its presence in Indonesia, one of the largest automotive markets in Southeast Asia.
During the signing ceremony at JIExpo Kemayoran, PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir emphasized that VinFast's presence among the national team's sponsors will help Garuda soar even higher. With private sector contributions now accounting for 70% of PSSI's funding, this partnership serves as a strategic move to ensure the financial stability of the national team without relying solely on government support.
Strengthening Timnas with Private Sector Support
PSSI continues to strengthen its collaboration with the private sector as part of a long-term funding strategy to build a competitive Indonesian national team. Erick Thohir emphasized that building a successful national team requires significant and sustainable financial support that cannot rely solely on government funding.
As of November 2024, PSSI has secured Rp400 billion (US$24.53 million) in sponsorships, with approximately 70% coming from the private sector. Funding sources vary, including broadcast rights (Rp70 billion/US$4.3 million), Bank Mandiri (Rp80 billion/US$4.9 million), ticket sales (Rp20 billion/US$1.22 million per match), and additional corporate contributions of Rp100 billion (US$6.13 million).
The partnership with VinFast serves as a testament to the effectiveness of this strategy, further strengthening the foundation of the Indonesian national team as it prepares for international competition, including its grand ambition of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.