PSSI, Indonesia National Football Team Federation, has officially dismissed Shin Tae-Yong from his position as head coach of the Indonesian national team. During his tenure in Indonesia, the South Korean coach was often seen using Hyundai vehicles for his daily activities. However, intriguing dynamics regarding the ownership status of these vehicles exist.
As coach, Shin Tae-Yong reportedly received three types of vehicles from PT Hyundai Motors Indonesia (HMID): the Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai Staria, and Genesis Electrified G80. However, a recent statement from PT HMID’s Chief Operating Officer, Fransiscus Soerjopranoto, revealed that not all of these vehicles were outrightly given to Shin.
“Not all of them were given; some were granted while others were loaned. But I’m not sure yet which ones were loaned and which were granted,” Fransiscus said during an event in Jakarta on Thursday (January 9, 2025).
This statement raises significant questions about the transparency between PT HMID, Shin Tae-Yong, and other related parties. Were the decisions to provide or loan these vehicles made with careful consideration? More importantly, what will happen to the status of these vehicles now that Shin is no longer serving as coach?
Fransiscus acknowledged that, as of now, all the vehicles are still in Shin Tae-Yong’s possession. However, he added that Hyundai Indonesia is currently reviewing whether the vehicles will be returned or granted to Shin.
“Regarding this matter, we are still reviewing it. But what’s most important is our spirit to contribute to the automotive industry, in this case, Hyundai, in improving the quality of our sports, particularly football,” he added. While diplomatic, this statement also suggests that the decision is still unclear.
The next question is whether these vehicles will be used by Shin Tae-Yong’s successor, Patrick Kluivert, who is reportedly set to take over as the new head coach of the Indonesian national team. Fransiscus emphasized that Hyundai Indonesia supports the team as a whole, not specific individuals.
“We haven’t had a discussion yet. There’s been no communication, and we’re focusing on introducing new products. As I mentioned earlier, our support is not for the individual but for the operations,” he concluded.
This dynamic leaves the impression that the provision of vehicles to prominent figures like Shin Tae-Yong was not entirely managed with transparency and systematic planning. Moreover, it reflects how collaborations between automotive companies and the sports world are sometimes hindered by inadequate planning. The public is now awaiting clarity, both on the fate of these vehicles and on Hyundai’s direction of support moving forward.
