The IOC's Decision Not To Turn Off Indonesian Sports

JAKARTA - Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora), Erick Thohir, ensured that the decision from the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) did not kill Indonesian sports at all.

Erick in a press conference at the Kemenpora Office, Senayan, Jakarta on Friday, October 24, 2025, said the IOC in its decision was not to freeze Indonesian sports activities.

"I want to convey to the media that the context should not be as if our sports world has stopped completely. We still push according to our blue print (blue print) in the future, sports will be an important part of the development of the nation's character," he said.

The IOC in an official statement previously issued four important points for Indonesia after barring Israeli athletes from coming to Jakarta to participate in the 2025 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships.

One of them is to decide on dialogue with Indonesia to participate in the bidding to host the Olympics and other events. They also recommend international federations so that there is no need to hold events in Indonesia.

The decision of the IOC Executive Board is valid until Indonesia wants to guarantee the entry of all athletes regardless of their country of origin in accordance with the Olympic Charter and the basic principles of non-discrimination.

Erick emphasized that the decision should not be misinterpreted as a freeze against Indonesian sports. He ensured that discussions with the IOC to find a way out would continue to be pushed.

"So this is something that is still in talks. Of course we from the Ministry of Youth and Sports continue to run our blue print, namely there are international events that we must participate in, such as the SEA Games, Asian Games, Youth Olympics, and the Olympics," he said.

The IOC's decision to make Indonesia's desire to host important events is getting smaller. To open up opportunities, Indonesia must guarantee that it is open to all athletes without exception.

Although the chances of becoming the host are shrinking, Indonesia can still send athletes to carry out activities in various important international events.