10 Oldest Football Clubs In Indonesia

Hey football fans! Are you ready to dive into the rich history of Indonesian football? Today, we're going to explore the 10 oldest football clubs in Indonesia. These clubs have not only witnessed the evolution of the sport in the archipelago but have also contributed significantly to its growth and popularity. So, let's lace up our boots and get started!

1. Persis Solo (Founded 1923)

Persis Solo takes the crown as the oldest football club in Indonesia, established in 1923. This club isn't just old; it's a living monument to Indonesian football history. Imagine the stories this club could tell, from the pre-independence era to the modern Liga 1! Based in Solo, Central Java, Persis has a massive and loyal following, known as Pasoepati. Their home ground, Manahan Stadium, is often a cauldron of support, creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.

Persis Solo's journey through Indonesian football hasn't always been smooth sailing. Like many clubs of its vintage, it has experienced periods of glory, mediocrity, and even hardship. However, its enduring legacy and passionate fanbase have kept it alive and kicking. In recent years, there's been a renewed focus on building a competitive squad and achieving success on the national stage. The club's commitment to developing young talent and playing attractive football has earned it plaudits from fans and pundits alike.

What makes Persis Solo so special? It's not just the age or the trophies (though they certainly have their share). It's the deep connection with the city of Solo and its people. The club is more than just a football team; it's a symbol of local pride, a source of community identity, and a rallying point for generations of Solo residents. Whether you're a die-hard Pasoepati or just a casual football fan, you can't deny the historical significance and cultural impact of Persis Solo.

2. PSM Makassar (Founded 1915)

Hold on, you might be thinking, "Wait a minute, I thought Persis Solo was the oldest!" Well, here's where things get interesting. While Persis Solo was officially established in 1923, PSM Makassar traces its roots back even further, to 1915! Originally known as Makassar Voetbal Bond (MVB), this club has a rich and complex history, evolving through various names and organizational structures before becoming the PSM Makassar we know today.

Based in Makassar, South Sulawesi, PSM is one of the most successful and well-supported clubs in Indonesian football. Nicknamed "Juku Eja" (Red Fish), PSM has a long and proud tradition of playing attacking, entertaining football. Their home ground, Andi Mattalatta Stadium, is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, with passionate fans creating a sea of red in support of their team.

PSM Makassar has a trophy cabinet that many Indonesian clubs would envy, including multiple league titles and domestic cup wins. The club has also produced a host of legendary players who have gone on to represent the Indonesian national team. Beyond its on-field success, PSM Makassar plays a vital role in the social and cultural life of Makassar. The club is deeply embedded in the local community, organizing youth development programs, supporting charitable causes, and promoting football as a vehicle for positive social change. For the Juku Eja faithful, PSM is more than just a football club; it's a symbol of Makassar pride and a source of unwavering passion.

3. Persebaya Surabaya (Founded 1927)

Persebaya Surabaya, established in 1927, is a giant in Indonesian football, both in terms of history and fan base. Known as "Bajul Ijo" (Green Crocodile), Persebaya boasts one of the most passionate and dedicated fanbases in the country, the "Bonek" (Bondo Nekat). Their unwavering support, often bordering on fanaticism, has made Persebaya matches legendary occasions.

Based in Surabaya, East Java, Persebaya has a long and illustrious history, marked by periods of great success and occasional turmoil. The club has won multiple league titles and domestic cups, establishing itself as one of the powerhouses of Indonesian football. Beyond the trophies and accolades, Persebaya is deeply ingrained in the social and cultural fabric of Surabaya. The club is a symbol of local pride, a source of community identity, and a rallying point for the people of Surabaya.

Persebaya's impact extends beyond the football pitch. The club has been involved in various social initiatives, promoting education, health, and community development. The Bonek fanbase, despite their reputation for being hardcore, has also been actively involved in charitable activities, demonstrating the positive influence that football can have on society. Persebaya Surabaya is more than just a football club; it's a cultural institution, a symbol of Surabaya's spirit, and a testament to the enduring power of football.

4. Persija Jakarta (Founded 1928)

Persija Jakarta, founded in 1928, is the capital city's pride and one of the most iconic football clubs in Indonesia. Known as "Macan Kemayoran" (Kemayoran Tiger), Persija has a massive following throughout Jakarta and beyond. Their home matches at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium are often packed to the rafters, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Persija has a rich and storied history, marked by periods of both triumph and tribulation. The club has won multiple league titles, cementing its place as one of the giants of Indonesian football. However, Persija's significance extends beyond its on-field achievements. The club is deeply intertwined with the history and identity of Jakarta, representing the aspirations and passions of its diverse population.

Persija's fanbase, known as "Jakmania," is renowned for its unwavering loyalty and passionate support. They are a constant presence at Persija matches, creating a sea of orange and chanting their team on to victory. The Jakmania have also been actively involved in social initiatives, promoting peace, tolerance, and community development. Persija Jakarta is more than just a football club; it's a symbol of Jakarta's spirit, a source of pride for its citizens, and a testament to the unifying power of football.

5. PSIS Semarang (Founded 1932)

PSIS Semarang, established in 1932, is a prominent football club based in Semarang, Central Java. Known as "Mahesa Jenar", PSIS has a loyal and passionate fanbase that has supported the team through thick and thin. Their home ground, Jatidiri Stadium, is often filled with enthusiastic supporters, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

PSIS Semarang has a long and respectable history in Indonesian football. While they may not have the same trophy haul as some of the other clubs on this list, PSIS has consistently competed at the highest levels of the sport. The club has also played a significant role in developing young talent, producing many players who have gone on to represent the Indonesian national team.

PSIS Semarang is more than just a football club; it's an integral part of the Semarang community. The club is actively involved in various social initiatives, promoting education, health, and community development. The PSIS fanbase is also known for its charitable activities, demonstrating the positive impact that football can have on society. For the people of Semarang, PSIS is a source of pride, a symbol of local identity, and a testament to the enduring power of football.

6. Persib Bandung (Founded 1933)

Persib Bandung, founded in 1933, is a football club that ignites immense passion in West Java, particularly in the city of Bandung. Affectionately called "Maung Bandung" (Mountain Tiger of Bandung), Persib is more than just a team; it's a symbol of regional pride and cultural identity. The "Bobotoh," Persib's dedicated fanbase, are known for their unwavering support and vibrant displays of affection for their team.

Persib's journey through Indonesian football is marked by significant achievements, including several league titles that have cemented their status as one of the nation's footballing giants. The club's matches are more than just sporting events; they're a cultural phenomenon, drawing massive crowds and creating an electrifying atmosphere that resonates throughout the city.

What sets Persib apart is not just their on-field success but also their deep connection with the community. The club actively engages in social initiatives, using its platform to promote education, health awareness, and community development. This commitment to social responsibility has further endeared Persib to its fans, making the club an integral part of Bandung's social fabric. Persib Bandung represents the spirit of West Java, embodying the passion, resilience, and unity of its people.

7. Persiraja Banda Aceh (Founded 1957)

Persiraja Banda Aceh, established in 1957, holds a special place in the hearts of football fans in Aceh. Known as "Laskar Rencong", Persiraja is a symbol of resilience and hope for the people of Aceh, a region that has faced numerous challenges throughout its history. The club's colors, green and white, represent peace and prosperity, reflecting the aspirations of the Acehnese people.

Persiraja's journey through Indonesian football has been marked by periods of both success and hardship. The club has faced financial difficulties, natural disasters, and political instability, but its spirit has never been broken. Persiraja's fans, known as "SKULL" (Suporter Kutaraja Untuk Lantang), are among the most loyal and passionate in Indonesia, supporting the team through thick and thin.

Persiraja's role extends beyond the football pitch. The club has been actively involved in promoting peace and reconciliation in Aceh, using football as a tool to unite communities and rebuild lives. Persiraja has also been involved in various social initiatives, providing assistance to victims of natural disasters and supporting education and healthcare programs. Persiraja Banda Aceh represents the spirit of Aceh, embodying the resilience, hope, and unity of its people.

8. Sriwijaya FC (Founded 2004)

Sriwijaya FC, founded in 2004, might be one of the "younger" clubs on this list, but it has quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in Indonesian football. Based in Palembang, South Sumatra, Sriwijaya FC is named after the historical Srivijaya empire, a powerful maritime kingdom that once ruled over much of Southeast Asia. The club's nickname, "Laskar Wong Kito" (Our People's Army), reflects its strong connection with the people of South Sumatra.

Sriwijaya FC has enjoyed a period of sustained success since its inception, winning multiple league titles and domestic cups. The club has also represented Indonesia in continental competitions, showcasing its talent on the international stage. Sriwijaya FC's success has brought pride and joy to the people of South Sumatra, solidifying its place as one of the region's most beloved sporting institutions.

Sriwijaya FC is committed to developing young talent and promoting football throughout South Sumatra. The club operates a comprehensive youth academy that provides opportunities for young players to develop their skills and pursue their dreams of playing professional football. Sriwijaya FC also actively engages in community outreach programs, using football as a tool to promote healthy lifestyles and positive social values. Sriwijaya FC represents the ambition and potential of South Sumatra, embodying the spirit of progress and development.

9. Arema FC (Founded 1987)

Arema FC, established in 1987, is a football club that embodies the spirit of Malang, East Java. Known as "Singo Edan" (Mad Lion), Arema has a fiercely loyal and passionate fanbase, the "Aremania", who are renowned for their creative and colorful displays of support. Arema matches are always a spectacle, with the Aremania transforming the stadium into a sea of blue and chanting their team on with unwavering enthusiasm.

Arema has a history marked by periods of both success and adversity. The club has won several league titles, cementing its place as one of the top teams in Indonesia. However, Arema has also faced challenges, including financial difficulties and internal conflicts. Despite these challenges, the Aremania have remained steadfast in their support, ensuring that the spirit of Arema lives on.

Arema FC is more than just a football club; it's a symbol of Malang's identity and a source of pride for its people. The club actively engages in social initiatives, promoting education, health, and community development. The Aremania also play an active role in the community, organizing charitable events and supporting local causes. Arema FC represents the spirit of Malang, embodying the passion, creativity, and resilience of its people.

10. Persik Kediri (Founded 1950)

Last but not least, Persik Kediri, founded in 1950, is a football club that represents the city of Kediri, East Java. Known as "Macan Putih" (White Tiger), Persik has a dedicated fanbase that has supported the team through thick and thin. Persik's home ground, Brawijaya Stadium, is often filled with enthusiastic supporters, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Persik Kediri has a history marked by periods of both success and hardship. The club has won several league titles, showcasing its ability to compete at the highest levels of Indonesian football. However, Persik has also faced challenges, including financial difficulties and relegation to lower divisions. Despite these challenges, the Persik fanbase has remained loyal, ensuring that the club continues to represent the city of Kediri with pride.

Persik Kediri is an important part of the Kediri community. The club actively engages in social initiatives, promoting education, health, and community development. Persik Kediri represents the spirit of Kediri, embodying the passion and determination of its people.

So there you have it, folks! The 10 oldest football clubs in Indonesia, each with its own unique history, traditions, and passionate fanbase. These clubs have played a vital role in shaping the landscape of Indonesian football and continue to inspire generations of players and fans. Which club do you support? Let us know in the comments below!