Indonesian billionaire helped transform Como into a rising Serie A force alongside his brother Robert
Italian soccer is mourning the loss of one of the key figures behind Como’s remarkable rise.
Michael Bambang Hartono, billionaire co-owner of Como 1907, has passed away at the age of 86. The news was first reported by Indonesian media, while an official statement from the club is still pending.
Together with his brother Robert Budi Hartono, Hartono was part of the ownership group that took over Como in 2019. Under their leadership, the historic Lombardy club completed a stunning climb back to Serie A and has now emerged as a legitimate contender for a Champions League spot.
A Global Business Empire with Football Ambitions
The Hartono brothers are among the wealthiest individuals in the world and the richest in Indonesia, with a combined net worth estimated at over $40 billion. Their fortune was built on the tobacco giant Djarum, founded by their father in the 1950s, and later expanded into banking, electronics, and real estate.
Their holdings include a major stake in Bank Central Asia—Indonesia’s largest private bank—as well as the electronics brand Polytron and investments in global tech companies like Razer Inc..
Despite their vast business interests, the Hartonos made a significant impact in European soccer through Como. Their long-term vision, investment strategy, and international approach have turned the club into one of the most intriguing projects in Italian football.
From Lower Leagues to the Top of Italian Soccer
When the Hartonos acquired Como, the club was far from Italy’s elite. In just a few years, they oversaw a rapid rebuild—stabilizing the organization, investing in infrastructure, and assembling a competitive squad capable of climbing the divisions.
Today, Como is not only back in Serie A but also pushing toward European qualification, a remarkable turnaround that has drawn attention across Italy and beyond.
A Legacy Beyond Business
Michael Hartono was widely respected not only as a businessman but also for his philanthropic work through the Djarum Foundation, which supports education, sports, and environmental initiatives. He was also an accomplished bridge player, even helping Indonesia secure a bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games.
His passing marks the end of an era for one of Asia’s most influential business dynasties—and a significant loss for a Como project that continues to grow on the international stage.
