Indonesia Women’s League Opens New Path for Women’s Football Talents

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is entering a new chapter in developing women’s football through the Indonesia Women’s League (IWL). The senior competition is scheduled to begin in mid-October 2026.

Indonesia Women’s League CEO, Teddy Tjahjono, said the competition is being prepared as the next stage for women players. He made the statement during the National Sports Competition Ecosystem Talk Show at Indonesia Sports Summit (ISS) 2026 in Jakarta, Sunday, September 13, 2026.

“Indonesia Women’s League ini sebenarnya masih dalam kandungan. Rencananya akan dilahirkan pada pertengahan Oktober 2026,” Teddy said.

The league is part of efforts to build a sustainable women’s football ecosystem in Indonesia. Before reaching the senior level, players are developed through several youth competitions.

He said women’s football development still faces challenges, including limited competitions and shortages of players, coaches, referees, and supporting systems. Therefore, development programs start from an early age through several youth categories.

The programs cover under-8, under-10, and under-12 groups, followed by under-14 to under-16 development. Players can then continue through competitions for the under-15 to under-18 age groups before entering the senior level.

The inaugural IWL season will use a single-venue format in Greater Jakarta to improve cost efficiency. Six clubs will participate, namely Persija Jakarta, Persita Tangerang, EY United, Garuda Yaksa, Persika Depok, and Bekasi FC.

The league is expected to provide a clearer pathway for young talents to enter senior football. Teddy said Indonesia has promising female players who can contribute to the future development of women’s football.

“We see that our young female talents have good prospects,” Teddy said.