Prabowo Meets FIFA President, DPR: Indonesia Targets To Reach The 2026 World Cup

JAKARTA - Deputy Chairman of Commission X DPR, Lalu Hadrian Irfani responded to a meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and FIFA President Gianni Infantino in New York, United States on Wednesday, September 24. According to him, the meeting became a symbol of international legitimacy towards the new direction of Indonesian football.

Lalu mengatakan, pertemuan ini juga menjadi angin segar bagi kemajuan sepak bola di tanah air. Ia menilai, dunia internasional, khususnya komunitas sepak bola global sudah mempertahkan kepercayaan besar terhadap Indonesia.

"FIFA shows the belief that Indonesia is not only able to host various international football events, but is also seen as having great potential to penetrate the 2026 World Cup finals," said Lalu Hadrian Irfani, Friday, September 26.

FIFA's trust, continued Lalu, must be met with the readiness of infrastructure, early childhood development, and full support from all elements of the nation.

"We should be grateful for this meeting. This is not only sports diplomacy, but also a symbol that the world views Indonesia as a new force in the global football map," he said.

Then also emphasized the importance of full support from the government, especially President Prabowo in pushing the achievements of the Indonesian national team towards the highest level.

"Our hope is of course great. Indonesian football must continue to advance, and the support from the government must be total. We together lead the Indonesian national team to the 2026 World Cup finals. This is not a dream, but a target that can be achieved with hard work and commitment from all parties," he concluded.

As reported, President Prabowo met with FIFA President after attending the UN General Assembly in New York, United States. During the meeting, Prabowo was accompanied by his son, Ragowo Hediprasetyo or who is familiarly called Didit.

After the meeting, FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed FIFA's hope to strengthen collaboration with Indonesia. He has high hopes for Indonesia under the leadership of President Prabowo. He also expressed his appreciation for Prabowo's support for football.

"He is a big friend of football, a leader who holds fast to his words. And what he does for football in Indonesia is unique," said Gianni.