Report by Tribun Papua Journalist, Yulianus Magai

JAYAPURA – As the 2026 World Cup draws near, flag and national team jersey vendors in Abepura, Jayapura City, are witnessing a surge in buyers.

Various football-related items, such as national flags of World Cup participants, scarves, and jerseys of star players, now decorate the stalls along the streets.

One 32-year-old street vendor in Abepura said that the World Cup season is the most awaited time of the year, as sales typically rise significantly compared to regular days.

He opens his stall daily from 8 a.m. Eastern Indonesia Time until late at night to provide for his family and pay for his children's education.

“When the World Cup is near, there are usually lots of buyers. Many come looking for flags and jerseys of their favourite countries,” he told Tribun Papua on Thursday (May 29, 2026).

At his stall, flags from countries such as Brazil, Argentina, France, Portugal, and Germany are displayed alongside jerseys of world-famous players.

The jerseys are sold at prices ranging from IDR 150,000 to IDR 300,000, depending on fabric quality and jersey type.

As for flags, prices start from tens of thousands of rupiah, varying with size.

According to him, Brazil is among the most sought-after teams by buyers in Jayapura as the World Cup approaches.

The iconic yellow and green colours of the Samba team are said to always attract the attention of the Papuan community.

He admitted that he also supports Brazil, a passion that began with his children, who are big fans of Neymar Jr.

“My kids have been watching Neymar play for a long time, so I also end up supporting Brazil,” he said with a smile.

He added that during almost every Brazil match, his children gather at home to watch together.

They often ask him to buy Neymar’s jersey to wear while playing football with their friends.

According to him, Neymar is one of the most admired players among Papuan children because of his fast, entertaining playing style.

“When the kids play football here, many of them call themselves Neymar,” he said, laughing lightly.

Besides Brazil’s jersey, those of Argentina and France are also highly popular among buyers. Many people are looking for jerseys of famous stars such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

He said that sales usually peak during the late afternoon and evening, when people finish work and head to Abepura to shop.

Although the business may look modest, selling flags and jerseys is the main source of income for his family.

From the proceeds, he supports his household expenses and his children’s schooling.

“What matters most is that my children can continue their education, and the family’s needs are met,” he said.

He believes that the World Cup not only provides entertainment for football fans but also brings blessings for small traders like him.

The atmosphere in Abepura is already livelier as the 2026 World Cup approaches.

Stalls selling football merchandise are now crowded with customers, while flags of various nations flutter outside the vendors’ kiosks.

The growing enthusiasm of Papuans for football is increasingly evident as the world’s biggest tournament, set to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, draws near.