Como Mourns: Billionaire Owner Michael Hartono Dies at 86
Michael Hartono, co-owner of Italian football club Como 1907, has passed away at the age of 86. His death marks a significant moment for the club, which he and his brother Robert Budi Hartono acquired in 2019, steering it from Serie D to its current position in Serie A and contention for a Champions League spot.
From Tobacco Empire to Football Ownership
The Hartono brothers are Indonesian billionaires whose wealth originates from the Djarum tobacco company. They diversified their holdings into banking (BCA), electronics (Polytron) and real estate, building a vast business empire. Their 2019 investment in Como 1907 signaled a new era for the historic club.
Reviving a Footballing Legacy
Under the Hartono family’s ownership, Como experienced a remarkable turnaround. The club climbed through the Italian football leagues, ultimately returning to Serie A. Currently, Como is positioned to potentially qualify for the Champions League, a testament to the family’s commitment and investment.
A Family Fortune and Philanthropic Endeavors
With a combined net worth of $43.8 billion, the Hartono brothers are the wealthiest individuals in Indonesia. Michael Hartono was also known for his philanthropic function through the Djarum Foundation, supporting education, sports, and environmental initiatives. He was a professional bridge player and advocated for its inclusion in the Asian Games, where his team won a bronze medal in 2018.
The Hartono Business Empire: A Diversified Portfolio
The Hartono family’s business empire began in 1950 when their father acquired a bankrupt cigarette company, renaming it Djarum. Today, Djarum is a major producer of clove cigarettes in Indonesia. The family also holds a significant stake in Bank Central Asia, the largest bank in Indonesia by market capitalization, and owns valuable real estate in Jakarta, as well as the Polytron electronics brand, which entered the electric vehicle sector in 2025. They also have an investment in Razer, a Singaporean gaming hardware company.
Impact on Italian Football
The Hartono brothers represent a growing trend of international investment in Italian football. Their financial backing has not only revitalized Como but also contributed to the increasing competitiveness of Serie A.
The Rise of Foreign Ownership in Serie A
Como’s story mirrors a broader trend in Italian football, where foreign ownership is becoming increasingly common. This influx of capital is helping clubs modernize their infrastructure, attract top talent, and compete on a European level.
FAQ
- Who are the Hartono brothers? They are Indonesian billionaires who made their fortune in the tobacco industry and diversified into banking, electronics, and real estate.
- When did the Hartono family acquire Como 1907? They purchased the club in 2019.
- What is the Hartono family’s net worth? Their combined net worth is $43.8 billion.
- What other interests did Michael Hartono have? He was a philanthropist and a professional bridge player.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Como 1907 – their trajectory under the Hartono family’s ownership is a compelling case study in modern football investment.
Explore more articles on Serie A and international football investment to stay informed about the latest developments in the sport.
