Menpora Ensures Security For The Bahrain National Team In Indonesia

Menpora Dito Ariotedjo gave a statement to reporters at the Jakarta Presidential Palace, Monday (21/10/2024). (ANTARA/Rangga Pandu Asmara Jingga)

JAKARTA - Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo ensured the safety of the Bahrain national team if they competed against the Indonesian national team at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, in the 2026 World Cup qualifying continued match.

"So if there is a statement from Bahrain that it is not safe in Indonesia, we make sure there is no potential security threat that could endanger the Bahrain team," said Dito at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta as reported by ANTARA, Monday, October 22.

He emphasized that there should be no reason for the Bahrain team to refuse to play in Indonesia.

"FIFA has said the match remains in Indonesia. It must be in Indonesia. Otherwise, it means winning WO," he said.

Previously, the Bahrain football association proposed the transfer of the 2026 World Cup qualifying venue against Indonesia, which was originally scheduled to be held in Indonesia in March 2025, to become another country.

The submission was made on the grounds that the Bahrain team was afraid of safety when competing in Indonesia, after previously drawing blasphemy because the 2-2 draw against Indonesia was considered controversial.