JAKARTA - The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) announced that the League 1 competition will begin in October. A number of clubs have also responded by preparing preparations for the continuation of the competition.
However, not all clubs agree with this decision. There are two clubs that refuse to continue the competition, namely Persebaya Surabaya and Barito Putera. The reason is that the COVID-19 pandemic is still threatening.
In its official letter, Persebaya acknowledged respecting PSSI's decision to continue the competition. However, the pandemic situation which had not yet been constrained forced the management of the club nicknamed Bajul Ijo to take a brush against agreeing to continue the competition.
"Given, until now, for 3 (three) months the competition has stopped, PSSI has not provided clear and detailed technical guidance to the club if the competition continues. In fact, this is very necessary to provide certainty to all football stakeholders," said Persebaya's statement. released on the club's official website.
PSSI's decision is considered to be adding to the risks and burdens for the club. Especially the situation in Surabaya, where the number of patient increases and deaths is the highest in Indonesia. The same thing happened in the Greater Surabaya area (Sidoarjo and Gresik).
"In this situation, it is very risky to have football activity at all levels," the statement continued.
The same attitude was taken by Barito Putera. CEO Hasnuryadi Sulaiman said in his official statement, safety and health aspects are top priorities. Despite refusing to continue the competition, the club nicknamed Laskar Antasari still respects PSSI's decision.
"We have other considerations and views in loving this nation when facing the COVID-19 pandemic that is hitting the world, including loving the world of national football," said Hasnur.
Hasnur refused not without reason. This is because one of their trainers has contracted COVID-19. This unpleasant experience is also a factor why Barito Putera is reluctant to continue the competition amid the pandemic.
"We feel how difficult and painful it is for our family members to fight this pandemic," he said.
Hasnur emphasized that Barito Putera's principle is prevention is better than cure. That's because the risks are quite large. The club management also chose to be careful for the safety of everyone, especially players and team officials.
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