PT LIGA INDONESIA AGREE TO POSSIBLE FINE FROM DJARUM

For the just concluded Indonesia Super League 2009/2010 season, 27 matches were played at stadiums without spectators although not all were due to the sanctions from the PSSI (Indonesia FA) Disciplinary Committee.

Around 13 matches had to be played without fans because the games were not issued with police permit.

It is due to this reason that title sponsor PT Djarum felt the loss and whereby they have stipulated this new penalty of Rp. 100 million (USD11,000) on PT Liga Indonesia should it happen again.

“We do not want to see a repeat of this problem for the new season. We are the ones who are losing in this matter. If matches continue to be played without fans, then how can we possibly conduct our promotions,” said Fatih Chabanto of PT Djarum Indonesia.

“We had to stipulate this new fine because as sponsors, we are always at the losing end.”

Last season, the contract stipulation was that should 5% of the 306 matches in the Indonesia Super League were played at empty stadiums – and this does not include Disciplinary Committee sanctions – then PT Djarum have the right to ask for a penalty.

And since the number of matches involved were less than 15, then Liga Indonesia were not served with a penalty.

”We have changed that ruling for the new season. If there is any match played to empty stadium at all whether due to Disciplinary Committee sanction or non-issuance of police permit, then PT Liga Indonesia will be penalized,” added Fatih.

For the new 2010/2011 season, PT Djarum have increased the amount of sponsorship from Rp. 37.5 miliar (USD4.1 million) to Rp. 41 miliar (USD4.5 million).