Michael Hartono, Owner of Como Calcio, Dies at 86
Michael Bambang Hartono, a prominent Indonesian businessman and owner of Sent Entertainment – the company controlling Italian football club Como Calcio – has died at the age of 86. Hartono was a highly influential figure in Indonesia, with significant interests in the banking and tobacco sectors. His passing was confirmed by Ossy Indra Wardhani, director of corporate affairs at GDP Venture, the venture capital arm of the Hartono family’s Djarum Group.
Hartono’s involvement with Como Calcio marked a significant chapter in the club’s recent history. The Hartono family acquired the club in 2019, and under their ownership, Como 1907 has experienced a resurgence, securing promotion back to Serie A and, as of recently, positioning themselves within contention for Champions League qualification thanks to the technical guidance of manager Cesc Fabregas.
A Business Empire Built on Tobacco
The Hartono family’s wealth originates from the Djarum Group, a conglomerate initially built on the production of clove cigarettes. Michael Hartono’s father, Oei Wie Gwan, purchased a failing cigarette company in 1950 and renamed it Djarum, inspired by the needle of a gramophone. From those humble beginnings, Djarum grew to grow one of Indonesia’s largest cigarette manufacturers.
Beyond tobacco, the Hartono family’s business interests have diversified considerably. Forbes Asia reported in December 2025 that the combined net worth of Michael and his brother, Robert Budi Hartono, reached $43.8 billion, making them the wealthiest individuals in Indonesia. Martin Hartono, Robert’s son, serves as the founder and CEO of GDP Venture, which includes the Indonesian e-commerce company Blibli among its portfolio companies.
Philanthropy and a Passion for Bridge
Michael Hartono was also known for his philanthropic endeavors, supporting education, sports, and environmental initiatives through the Djarum Foundation. He demonstrated a lifelong passion for the game of bridge, actively advocating for its inclusion in the Asian Games. His team secured a bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games, a testament to his dedication to the sport.
Hartono’s passing represents a loss not only to his family and business associates but also to the sporting community in Como, Italy. The club has seen a remarkable turnaround under the Hartono family’s stewardship, and their continued investment is seen as crucial to Como’s ambitions of establishing itself as a consistent competitor in Serie A. The club has not yet released a formal statement regarding the future ownership structure following Hartono’s death, but This proves expected that the Hartono family will maintain its controlling interest.
Como Calcio currently sits in a strong position in the Serie A standings, exceeding pre-season expectations. The team’s success is largely attributed to the tactical acumen of Cesc Fabregas, a former Premier League and La Liga star who transitioned into management. Fabregas has instilled a dynamic and attacking style of play that has resonated with fans and yielded positive results.
The club’s resurgence has also brought renewed attention to the city of Como, a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Como in the Lombardy region of Italy. The increased visibility has boosted tourism and generated a sense of civic pride among local residents. The Hartono family’s investment has not only revitalized the football club but has also contributed to the economic and social well-being of the community.
The impact of Michael Hartono’s leadership extends beyond the financial realm. His commitment to Como Calcio demonstrated a genuine desire to support the club and its fans, fostering a strong connection between the ownership and the community. His legacy will undoubtedly be remembered by the players, staff, and supporters of Como Calcio for years to come.
As Como Calcio continues its pursuit of a Champions League berth, the club will undoubtedly honor Hartono’s memory and strive to build upon the foundation he helped establish. The next match for Como Calcio is scheduled for March 22nd against Fiorentina at the Stadio Giovanni Ferraris in Genoa. Kick-off is set for 3:00 PM CET (9:00 AM EDT).
The club’s performance in the remaining matches of the season will be crucial in determining whether they can secure a coveted spot in Europe’s premier club competition. Fans are encouraged to follow Como Calcio’s official website and social media channels for the latest updates and news.
