PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The closing of the 2026 Bandung Mayor's Cup Special West Java League is an important momentum for youth soccer development in Bandung City.

Apart from being a competition event, the tournament is also used as a means of talent scouting for potential young players.

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan said that long-term development is the key to producing a new generation of Persib players from Bandung.

"Mark this date, May 17, 2026. In ten years, Persib players must be born from this place," said Farhan at Mengger Soccer, Sunday (May 17, 2026).

Farhan reminded the young players to focus on undergoing the training process properly and not to rush to achieve instant results.

According to him, the age of children up to 18 years is an important period for developing basic techniques and physical strength.

He also emphasized the importance of an education and training system (diklat) in youth football development. According to Farhan, Persib's past success stemmed from strong and structured coaching.

"Training is key. Good and proper training will determine a player's future," he said.

On that occasion, Farhan also expressed his appreciation to the Askot PSSI Bandung City, coaches, football legends, coaching clubs, and parents who continue to support the development of youth football in Bandung City.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Special West Java League Organizing Committee, Laga Sudarmaji, said that the competition succeeded in attracting a number of potential talents from various age groups.

According to him, the top six teams in the Bandung Mayor's Cup will advance to the regional level. Meanwhile, for the 12-year-old age group, selected teams will compete in the national competition in Jakarta and have the opportunity to compete in Japan if they win the national championship.

"Talent scouting has been carried out and we have prepared the names of several potential players for further development," he said.

In addition to the 12-year-old age group, the 10-year-old age category is also prepared to participate in national and international competitions.

Previously, a team of 10 and 12 year olds from Bandung City had won the championship when they participated in a tournament in Malaysia.

Laga added that, in accordance with the direction of the Mayor of Bandung, early childhood development will be strengthened through a training program for players aged 8 to 13 years.

The best players will be selected and prepared for the coaching level towards the Persib youth team.

"The goal is for Bandung City to continue to produce quality players," he said. (Bandung City Communications and Information Office/rka)