Officially Becomes the Chairman of PSSI 2023-2027, SOE Minister Erick Thohir Doesn't Feel Like a Winner

The new chairman of PSSI who is also the Minister of SOEs, Erick Thohir, serves reporters' questions after being elected. (Photo: Ulfa Gusti Utami/VOI)

JAKARTA - SOEs Minister Erick Thohir has been elected as the General Chair of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) for the 2023-2027 period. He won the vote in the 2023 PSSI Extraordinary Congress at the Shangri-La Hotel, Central Jakarta on Thursday, February 16 afternoon.

However, for him, this was not a victory. Erick feels he has not won because according to him victory is when he can develop Indonesian football which in fact requires hard work and cooperation from all parties.

"I thank you for the trust that has been given to voters, the Indonesian people, supporters, referees, players", said Erick when met on the sidelines of the Extraordinary Congress (KLB) event.

"There is no victory today. We haven't won yet. The meaning of victory, for me, is not to occupy the position of general chairman of PSSI", he continued

Furthermore, Erick explained that the real victory was when he was able to build Indonesian football by giving fans a sense of comfort.

Another victory for him was when Indonesia was able to produce young players who could compete at the international level.

With that hope, Erick also realized that his task was not easy. But he is sure he can make it happen by working closely with the staff within PSSI.

"But, believe me, nothing is impossible if we work together", said Erick.

"Therefore, I call and invite the candidates for the presidential candidate, Exc0 (Executive Committee), club owners, Provincial Association (Asprov), players, supporters, football lovers, and every person in this country who dreams of clean and accomplished Indonesian football. Let's end the differences and debate", he continued.

Erick Thohir was elected chairman of the PSSI 2023-2027 after winning 64 votes out of a total of 86 voters present at the Shangri-La Hotel, Central Jakarta. Meanwhile, LaNyalla Mattalitti, who is Erick Thohir's strong rival, only pocketed 22 votes.