AFC's Best Final Version, Indonesia Pede Applies to Host the 2026 Futsal World Cup

JAKARTA - The Indonesian government is targeting the opportunity to host the 2028 Futsal World Cup after being judged successful in organizing the 2026 Asian Futsal Cup in Jakarta from January 27 to February 7.

Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir said Indonesia's success as host received high appreciation from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), including in the final match which brought together Indonesia and Iran.

"AFC appreciates it. They said this was the best final they had ever seen, not only from the competition side, but also since the beginning of the championship. The audience was always crowded and the atmosphere was amazing. They judged this to be the best," said Erick in an official statement in Jakarta, Antara, Sunday, February 8.

According to Erick, this appreciation is an important capital for Indonesia to reapply as the host of the world-class futsal event. The government also opened the opportunity to register Indonesia as a candidate for the Futsal World Cup host.

"We from the government see the opportunity. If possible, we want to try to apply for Indonesia to host the futsal world championship," he said.

However, Erick admitted that there were challenges in the plan. One of them is the possibility that the Futsal World Cup will be held again in the Asian region, so it requires further communication and discussion with the World Football Federation (FIFA).

"The issue is in 2028. If Indonesia hosts, it means Asia will host twice in a row. This certainly needs to be discussed further with FIFA," said Erick.

In the final match of the 2026 Asian Futsal Cup, Indonesia had to admit Iran's superiority through a penalty shootout with a score of 4-5, after both teams drew 5-5 until the extra time.

Despite failing to win the title, the runner-up position is Indonesia's best achievement in the history of participation in the Asian Futsal Cup.