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Como, Italy – Ahead of Sunday’s Serie A match against Pisa, Como 1907 manager Cesc Fàbregas paid tribute to the club’s recently deceased owner, Michael Bambang Hartono. The passing of Hartono has cast a somber mood over the club as they prepare for a crucial league fixture.
Michael Bambang Hartono, a key figure in the resurgence of Como 1907, died on Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Singapore, according to multiple reports. The news sent ripples of grief through the Italian football community, particularly within the club he helped transform.
The match between Como and Pisa, scheduled for Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, carries added weight as players seek to honor Hartono’s memory with a positive result. Como currently sits in a strong position in the Serie A standings, a testament to the investment and vision Hartono brought to the club.
Fàbregas, speaking in a press conference leading up to the match, publicly acknowledged the profound loss. “I would like to say publicly that we have lost someone who was very important to the club and to all of us: Michael Hartono,” he stated, as reported by Tuttomercatoweb. His words reflect the deep respect and gratitude felt by the entire team for Hartono’s contributions.
Hartono’s Transformative Ownership
Hartono, along with his brother Robert Budi Hartono, acquired Como 1907 through the Djarum Group in April 2019. At the time of the acquisition, the club was struggling in Serie D, the fourth tier of Italian football. Their investment marked the beginning of a remarkable turnaround.
Under the Hartono brothers’ ownership, Como experienced a rapid ascent through the Italian football pyramid, culminating in promotion to Serie A in the 2024-2025 season. This achievement ended a 21-year absence from the top flight and signaled a new era for the historic club. Como’s current fourth-place standing in Serie A underscores the success of this project.
The club’s impressive form this season has positioned them as contenders for a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League. With 54 points from 29 matches, Como is firmly in the hunt for European qualification, a goal that would be a fitting tribute to Hartono’s vision.
Fàbregas emphasized the significant role Hartono played in the club’s success. “Someone and a family who always gave so much to the club and the city,” he said. He also acknowledged that while he didn’t know Hartono personally, he had a relationship with his children.
Hartono’s legacy extends beyond the pitch. His investment has revitalized the city of Como, bringing renewed pride and excitement to the local community. The club’s success has generated economic benefits and fostered a sense of unity among fans.
Preparing for Pisa
Despite the emotional circumstances, Fàbregas stressed the importance of maintaining focus and securing a victory against Pisa. He warned his players not to underestimate their opponents, who are currently battling relegation at the bottom of the Serie A table.
“They played very well against Cagliari, even with 10 players. They are a team that is alive, that doesn’t give up,” Fàbregas noted. “We must be careful, start strong, with the right tension and the right hunger. Bring quality and the right mentality to win.”
The upcoming match against Pisa represents an opportunity for Como to honor Hartono’s memory with a performance that reflects his ambition and dedication. A win would not only boost their Champions League aspirations but also serve as a powerful tribute to the man who believed in their potential.
Como 1907’s journey from Serie D to Serie A contenders is a remarkable story of ambition, investment and unwavering belief. Michael Bambang Hartono’s vision and leadership were instrumental in this transformation, and his legacy will continue to inspire the club for years to come. The team will undoubtedly carry his spirit with them as they strive for success on the pitch.
The club has confirmed that Hartono’s funeral will be held in Rembang, Indonesia, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
Next Up: Como 1907 will face Pisa on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 18:30 WIB (UTC+7) at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. The match promises to be an emotional occasion as the team seeks to honor the memory of their late owner.
What are your thoughts on Como’s season and the impact of Michael Bambang Hartono? Share your comments below.
