PSSI Admits FIFA Cancels 2023 U-20 World Cup Draw In Bali, Here's The Reason

Illustration (Photo: Doc. PSSI)

JAKARTA - The International Football Federation (FIFA) officially canceled the 2023 U-20 World Cup drawing in Bali.

This was confirmed by the All-Indonesian Football Association (PSSI).

PSSI Exco member, Arya Sinulingga said that his party had received a direct notification from FIFA regarding this cancellation.

However, PSSI cannot confirm when or where the draw will be held.

"We have received information from FIFA that the drawing in Bali has been canceled by FIFA," Arya said at a press conference, Sunday, March 26.

He emphasized that the cause of this cancellation was due to the rejection from Bali Governor I Wayan Koster of the Israeli team's participation.

Arya explained that drawing was impossible without the participation of all participants.

"Indeed, we have not received an official letter, but the message is clear because of the refusal from the Governor of Bali to reject the Israeli team so that the drawing cannot be carried out without all participants," said Arya.

Previously, I Wayan Koster sent a letter to the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) rejecting the Israeli team competing in Bali at the 2023 U-20 World Cup.

Wayan Koster is of the view that Israel's political policy towards the Palestinians is not in accordance with the Indonesian government's political policy.

"Actually, the Bali Provincial Government provides a guarantee when they agree and agree as one of the hosts of the 20 World Cup. With this rejection, it is natural for FIFA to ask (drawing in Bali) to be canceled," said Arya.

To note, the draw for the 2023 U-20 World Cup is scheduled to take place in Bali on Friday, March 31. However, FIFA then canceled this agenda after receiving news of rejection from the Bali Provincial Government.

"Regarding when and where the new location of the draw was, we are not yet in the process of obtaining information from FIFA," said Arya.