2023 U-17 World Cup: Problems That Can Block Jokowi's Desire To Use JIS As A Match Venue

PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir (center). (Photo: Doc. PSSI)

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) gave directions to PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir to consider other stadiums that can be used as venues for the 2023 U-17 World Cup matches.

According to Jokowi, the government and PSSI will look for solutions considering that the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2023 match will be held from November 10 to December 2, 2023 and coincides with the Coldplay music concert which is scheduled for November 15, 2023 at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Senayan, Jakarta.

The President also mentioned a number of stadiums that had previously been used for world-class matches, such as the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), Manahan Stadium Solo, Jalak Harupat Stadium, Bandung and Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, Surabaya.

However, there are problems that can block JIS from becoming the 2023 U-17 World Cup venue. Erick Thohir said limited audience access and parking areas were obstacles.

"We will definitely check the JIS Stadium. What is certain is that yesterday's record is that the problem was parking with audience access," said Erick Thohir, as reported by Antara.

"There should be four doors, only one door is open. This is what we must anticipate safety rather than supporters," he continued.

Erick admitted that he was open to President Joko Widodo's direction in choosing the location of the stadium other than the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, including JIS.

But on the other hand, JIS has a shortage, namely limited access in and out for spectators so that it can affect the safety and security of the audience. In addition, the lack of JIS is also found in the use of the stitches used.

Therefore, Erick together with the Acting Governor of DKI Jakarta and the Minister of PUPR Basuki Hadimuljono will directly inspect JIS to ensure the feasibility of the stadium according to FIFA standards.

"What shortcomings do you think need to be equipped with? I'm sure it's impossible for FIFA not to say the standard doesn't come in because of something political, no. But standards must be aligned," said Erick.

PSSI juga tengah menanti hadir FIFA untuk berkoordinasi terkait standarisasi dan pemilihan stadion yang sesuai untuk pertandingan, di mana Indonesia ditunjuk sebagai tuan rumah Piala Dunia U-17.

"I am very open to the President's direction for also several stadiums whose standardization is already possible. That's what I conveyed to the President. Of course, FIFA will review. Do not let the stadium that we propose is not in accordance with standardization," said Erick.