Gibran Says PSSI Chairman Has Plan B And C , Could It Be The U-17 World Cup?

Solo Mayor Gibran Rakabuming. (Photo via Antara)

JAKARTA - FIFA has officially revoked Indonesia's status as the host of the U-20 World Cup. This was the aftermath of the rejection of the participation of the Israeli team.

This decision was taken after PSSI chairman Erick Thohir tried to lobby FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The two met in Doha, Qatar, Wednesday, March 29 yesterday.

Recently, a new issue emerged. Reportedly, FIFA has indeed revoked the status of the host for the U-20 World Cup, but will provide a slot for the host for the U-17 World Cup which will also be held this year.

The reason is, Peru, which was previously appointed as the host, is considering withdrawing. This relates to the state of the country's economy.

The Peruvian government is reportedly reluctant to spend more on improving infrastructure. They are more focused on allocating funds for communities affected by the flood disaster.

If Peru decides to withdraw, the slot could be given to Indonesia. Unlike the U-20 World Cup which Israel will participate in, the U-17 World Cup will not involve the country which is in conflict with Palestine.

This issue intensified after the Mayor of Solo, Gibran Rakabuming, issued a statement indicating that the Manahan Stadium would still hold major events.

"The Ketum (General Chair) of PSSI is preparing plan B, plan C, God willing, it will work. Just wait," he said in Solo, Central Java, Thursday, March 30, reported by Antara.

He said the efforts that had been made to organize the World Cup would still be prepared because PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir had prepared other international-class events.

"God willing, this year. What was budgeted for yesterday, the renovation of the Manahan Stadium that we have carried out is not redundant," he said.