FIFA Introduces Indonesian U-17 World Cup Symbol, Mascot
- Instagram @erickthohir
Jakarta – FIFA officially introduces the official symbol and mascot of the Indonesian U-17 World Cup. The mascot previously used as the mascot for the 2023 U-20 World Cup, the One-horned Rhino (Bacuya), is being reused for the U-17 World Cup.
The Chairman of Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI), Erick Thohir expressed his pride for the prestigious event, "It's an honor for us to have the trust to organize a world football championship for the next generation of footballers," he said in a written statement.
"With 73% of Indonesia's population loving soccer, I feel confident that FIFA U-17 will be a success and bring many fans to the stadium. Moreover, this is the first time Indonesia has appeared in a World Cup-level event."
Moreover, the one-horned rhino is native to Indonesia. Bacuya is expected to play an important role in inviting people to watch this match.
Bacuya, which means rhino (Badak), horn (Cula), and light (Cahaya), appeared wearing the red and white jersey of the Indonesian national football team.
As information, Bacuya represents the energy and enthusiasm of football players and fans in Indonesia.
The energy of this rhino character is expected to bring joy and excitement to youth and football fans throughout Indonesia and the world.
With host status, Indonesia automatically gets one place to compete in the U-17 World Cup finals.
Occupying Group A, Indonesia is waiting for potential opponents through the draw in Switzerland on September 15, 2023.
A total of 24 countries will compete in the U-17 World Cup. The countries are Indonesia, Iran, Japan, South Korea, Uzbekistan representing Asia, Burkina Faso, Mali, Morocco, Senegal from Africa, Canada, Mexico, Panama the United States representing North America, Central America.
Also, there are the Caribbean, Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela from South America, New Caledonia, New Zealand from Oceania, and England, France, Germany, Poland, Spain from the blue continent of Europe.