Ajax CEO to Share Sustainable Football Strategy in Jakarta

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Amsterdamsche Football Club (AFC) Ajax CEO, Menno Geelen, will discuss sustainable football development at Indonesia Sports Summit 2026. The information was announced in Jakarta on Thursday, August 27, 2026.

Geelen will speak during “Beyond the Pitch: Building Sustainable Football Ecosystems through Green Stadiums, Economic Growth and Community Value". The session will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Jakarta International Convention Center, Jakarta.

The discussion will examine football beyond matches and achievements on the field. Topics include club businesses, sustainable stadium management, economic growth, and community involvement.

Youth development will also become an important part of discussions about sustainable football ecosystems. The approach highlights the need to develop young talent alongside stronger football industry structures.

Geelen will also discuss Environmental, Social, and Governance principles in modern sports infrastructure management. One focus will be green stadiums, emphasizing energy efficiency, renewable energy, and efficient resource use.

The stadium is also viewed as more than a venue for football matches. It can become an inclusive community space while supporting accountable management and strategic partnerships.

These approaches are expected to inspire stakeholders in Indonesia to develop a stronger sports industry ecosystem. The goal is to build an independent, competitive, sustainable industry with meaningful community impact.

Geelen joined Ajax in 2010 and previously handled sponsorship and commercial sectors before becoming Commercial Director. He has served as AFC Ajax CEO since July 1, 2025.

His European football experience expanded in February 2026, when he joined the UEFA Club Competitions Committee. His Ajax experience offers Indonesia references for club businesses, youth development, and sustainable football infrastructure.

ISS 2026 will be held by Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports from September 11-13. The event carries the theme “Beyond The Game 2.0: From Nation Building to Global Industry”.