A club born from fan frustration and a dolphin's profile
In short: Borneo FC Samarinda didn't start with a legacy; it started with a protest. Born from supporters tired of mediocrity, the club secured a direct license to the top flight in 2014, rebranding itself to become a regional powerhouse and a symbol of East Kalimantan pride.
The club's origins are rooted in dissatisfaction. It was founded by former supporters of Putra Samarinda who were frustrated by the team's lack of achievements. To bypass the traditional climb, PT Nahusam Pratama Indonesia purchased Perseba Bangkalan on March 7, 2014. By acquiring Perseba Bangkalan, the club secured an immediate entry into the 2014 Liga Indonesia Premier Division, subsequently adopting the name Pusamania Borneo Football Club.
The club achieved rapid success, winning the 2014 Liga Indonesia Premier Division title on November 27, 2014, after a 2–1 victory over Persiwa Wamena. By April 2017, the club adopted its current name, Borneo Football Club. This era was marked by high-profile signings, including New Zealand international Shane Smeltz and former West Ham and Real Madrid player Julien Faubert, signaling an ambition to compete at a higher level.
Today, the club is defined by its identity and infrastructure. Known as 'Pesut Etam' (Our Dolphins), the club's logo features the Mahakam dolphin. They have invested heavily in regional development, opening a dedicated training center in Sempaja in January 2023. While they have faced recurring challenges in the Piala Presiden—reaching the final in 2017, 2022, and 2024—they recently made their international debut in the 2024–25 ASEAN Club Championship, marking a new chapter of expansion.
The club serves as a central pillar for local rivalries, participating in the East Kalimantan, Papadaan, and Mahakam derbies. These matches are deeply tied to the geography of the region, particularly the Mahakam River. Despite a temporary relocation to Batakan Stadium in late 2023 for renovations, the club returned to its home at Segiri Stadium in February 2025, solidifying its place in the Indonesian football landscape.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Borneo FC Samarinda
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