Football is a global obsession, and Bali is no exception.
It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you picture the Island of the Gods, but football in Bali is alive and kicking. From serious league matches to casual kickarounds on rice field sidelines, the game has a proud place in local and expat life.
There’s a unique blend here: local clubs with deep history, a powerhouse team competing at the top of the Indonesian system, and a thriving expat scene that brings footy-loving communities together. Whether you’re playing five-a-side with mates or cheering at a sold-out stadium, the passion is real.
Indonesian Football League
Indonesia’s football pyramid features multiple divisions, with Liga 1 at the top. Clubs from across the archipelago compete for glory, and Bali has a strong presence thanks to Bali United, the island’s most successful professional club.
It’s a rapidly developing scene. The league has attracted more fans, bigger sponsors, and better infrastructure in recent years. Matches are often televised nationally, and media coverage is improving, especially for the champions and those pushing for promotion.
Group Stages
In the lower divisions, like Liga 2 and Liga 3, the group stage system is used early on due to the huge number of regional clubs.
Each team competes within its area, aiming to qualify for the knockout rounds, where things get fiery. These early rounds may not get as much media love, but for die-hard locals, they’re what the game is all about.
Runners Up
The runners-up in Liga 2 often still earn promotion, which keeps the final stretch of the season full of drama.
For newer or smaller teams, that second-place finish can mean everything, a fast-track to success, more funding, and maybe even a shot at taking on the giants in Liga 1.
Teams In Bali:
For an island better known for waves and wellness retreats, Bali punches above its weight when it comes to football.
There’s one elite club, a few historic locals, and a handful of grassroots and amateur teams keeping the spirit of the game alive all over the island.
Bali United F.C.
The pride of the island, Bali United F.C., are in Liga 1 and are the first fully professional football club in Bali. Based in Gianyar, with their slick stadium, fierce fanbase and ambitious play style, they’ve grown into one of Indonesia’s most successful sides, both on and off the field.
Formed in 2014 following the relocation of Putra Samarinda FC, Bali United quickly established itself as one of Indonesia’s most ambitious and successful teams. Since rebranding and officially joining Liga 1 in 2017, they’ve consistently been title contenders and have the silverware to show for it.
After a rocky start in their debut Liga 1 season, Bali United replaced their coach and went on an incredible run under Widodo Cahyono Putro, narrowly missing the title in 2017. Despite finishing level on points with Bhayangkara FC, they were controversially denied as winners on a head-to-head ruling, finishing as runners-up.
This marked their entry into Asian competition. In 2018, Bali United made their AFC Champions League debut, beating Singapore’s Tampines Rovers 3–1 in the first qualifying round before being eliminated by Thailand’s Chiangrai United. That same year, they also competed in the AFC Cup, but failed to progress past the group stage.
Redemption came in 2019, when Bali United clinched their first Liga 1 title, finishing 17 points clear of second place. Under Brazilian coach Stefano Cugurra, they repeated the feat in the 2021–22 season, cementing their status as champions and one of the dominant forces in Indonesian football.
Bali United’s success hasn’t just been on the field. With backing from major sponsors like Indofood, Smartfren, and Bank INA, they’ve expanded into merchandising, media, and even eSports. The club runs an official store, operates youth academies, and has invested in high-end training facilities to develop the next generation of players.
The matchday experience is on fire: a sea of red and white, flares lighting up the stands, street food stalls outside, and entire families shouting their support. Whether you’re a football fanatic or just a curious visitor, catching a match at Wayan Dipta is one of the most exciting things you can do in Bali.
Online: Bali Utd
Wayan Dipta Stadium
Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium is Bali United’s home turf and one of the finest footy venues in Indonesia. With a capacity of 25,000, it’s hosted league clashes, international fixtures, and unforgettable title runs.
The matchday experience is on fire, a sea of red and white, flares lighting up the stands, street food stalls outside, and entire families shouting their support.
Whether you’re a football fanatic or just a curious visitor, catching a game at Wayan Dipta is one of the most exciting things you can do in Bali.
Not interested in hitting the game but still want to check out the stadium? That’s fine, you can visit out of hours, a magnificent place and a great photo spot.
Address: Buruan, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80581, Indonesia
Online: Instagram
East Bali F.C.
A rising name in Bali’s football ecosystem, East Bali F.C. are all about community development and grassroots growth. They compete in the lower divisions but focus heavily on youth and local talent, especially from the eastern regions of the island, areas often overlooked in national football circles.
They don’t yet play in a major stadium, but they’re building something meaningful. If you want to see Bali’s football future being shaped, this is where to start.
Online: Instagram
Perseden Denpasar
Perseden Denpasar is one of the island’s oldest and most respected clubs, formed way back in 1957. Based in the capital, they’ve had their ups and downs, but still play a vital role in Bali’s football history.
Currently competing in Liga 3, Perseden are working hard to rebuild and climb the ranks. Their matches are old-school affairs, full of heart, local players, and a sense of community pride. They also run a women’s team that won the prestigious Pertiwi Cup, proving that this club still knows how to win.
Online: Instagram
Bali Bulldogs F.C.
The Bali Bulldogs are more than just an amateur expat side; they’ve grown into a full-fledged football club with a women’s team, a competitive U21 team, and a regular schedule of friendlies, training sessions, and tournaments.
They aren’t part of the national league, but they’ve carved out their own corner of the Bali football world. Social but structured, inclusive yet competitive, the Bulldogs are a brilliant option if you’re living on the island and looking to play, spectate, or just meet some like-minded people who love the ball as much as a cold beer after the game.
Address: Jl. Subak Sari No.72, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Online: Bali Bulldogs F.C.
Women’s Teams
Women’s football in Bali is still catching up, but it’s growing fast. Several clubs now run women’s teams, including Perseden Denpasar and the Bali Bulldogs, while more schools and academies are starting to take girls’ development seriously.
From school tournaments to national competitions, more players are getting involved, and that’s a good sign for the future. As infrastructure improves and public support grows, expect to see more female footballers from Bali breaking through at the national level.
What About Aussie Rules Football In Bali?
You bet. Aussie rules has a fun little niche here, thanks to the Bali Geckos, an expat-led team who play regular friendly matches and regional competitions across Southeast Asia.
They’re laid-back but competitive, and the club welcomes new players of all skill levels. If you’ve got footy in your blood and miss the feel of leather in hand (not just on foot), this is a great way to stay active and make mates.
FAQs
Can Tourists Watch Football In Bali?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a die-hard footy fan or just curious, catching a Bali United match at Wayan Dipta St. is a blast. Expect passionate fans, loud chants, and tasty street food outside.
No fancy dress code, just bring your enthusiasm. Tickets are affordable, and the atmosphere is electric. Even if you don’t speak Indonesian, the love of football is universal here!
Where Can I Buy Bali United F.C. Merchandise?
You can grab official Bali United gear at their Mega Store inside Wayan Dipta Stadium in Gianyar, perfect for match days!
If you’re not on the island, no worries: they have an online store with jerseys, scarves, and more. Plus, look out for merch stalls near the stadium and select shops around Bali.
Rocking the red and white never looked so easy!
Final Thoughts On Football In Bali
Football in Bali is a vibrant mix of passion, community, and spirited competition. From high-stakes Liga 1 clashes at Wayan Dipta Stadium to grassroots matches, expat friendlies, and the growing women’s teams, the island’s football culture has something for every fan.
Whether you’re soaking up the electric atmosphere of a Bali United game or discovering local clubs and rising stars, watching football here is about more than just the score; it’s about joining a lively, welcoming crowd that loves the game as much as you do.
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