Indonesia Officially Stripped of U-20 World Cup Hosting Rights

VIVA – FIFA has officially removed Indonesia as the host of the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, it was the result of the meeting between President of FIFA Gianni Infantino and President of the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) Erick Thohir on Wednesday.

A new host will be announced as soon as possible, with the dates of the tournament currently remaining unchanged. Potential sanctions against the PSSI may also be decided at a later stage.

FIFA would like to underline that despite this decision, it remains committed to actively assisting the PSSI, in close cooperation and with the support of the government of President Joko Widodo, in the transformation process of Indonesian football following the tragedy that occurred in October 2022.

Members of the FIFA team will continue to be present in Indonesia in the coming months and will provide the required assistance to the PSSI, under the leadership of Erick Thohir.

Meanwhile, the President of PSSI, said he had tried to fight for Indonesia's position as host in this prestigious event. However, FIFA's decision cannot be rejected.

"Indonesia is a member of FIFA, so for international football matters, we must follow the rules that have been set. Even though I have conveyed everything to the President of FIFA, they considered that the current situation could not be continued, so we must obey," Thohir explained.

Furthermore, the Israel National Football Team will still be able to participate in the tournament for successfully passing the qualifications round, while Indonesia will not be able to participate. Previously, Indonesia was able to participate because this country was the host of this year’s tournament.

Many people, even Indonesian football players are showing their disappointment at the cancellation of Indonesia being a host in this year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup. Several made statements on their respective Instagram accounts showing sadness towards the decision.

"We have lost one of our big dreams to play in the World Cup in our own country. Thank you, friends, coaches, and officials, of the U20 national team for your struggle and togetherness so far. Success for all. #kickoutpoliticoutoffootball." one of Indonesian football player, Rabbani Tasnim wrote on his Instagram account on Wednesday.