Indonesia Cancels Hosting The 2023 U-20 World Cup, FIFA Immediately Decides Sanctions For PSSI

FIFA revokes Indonesia's status as host of the U-20 World Cup. (Photo: Doc. FIFA)

JAKARTA - The International Football Federation (FIFA) has officially dropped Indonesia as the host of the 2023 U-20 World Cup. The threat of sanctions is in sight.

Indonesia's official statement was dropped as the host of the 2023 U-20 World Cup officially announced by FIFA on Wednesday, March 29 evening WIB. This cancellation refers to the recent situation in Indonesia.

This is related to the rejection of the Israeli team's participation in the 2023 U-20 World Cup.

In his statement, FIFA said sanctions against PSSI would be imposed in the next stage.

"The potential sanctions against PSSI can also be decided in the next stage," said the official FIFA statement.

Although it will impose sanctions on PSSI, FIFA remains committed to actively assisting PSSI regarding the transformation process of Indonesian football after the tragedy that occurred in October 2022.

FIFA team members will continue to be present in Indonesia in the coming months and will provide the necessary assistance to PSSI.

Indeed, the 2023 U-20 World Cup is scheduled for May 20 to June 11. However, ahead of the event, a polemic emerged regarding the participation of the U-20 Israeli national team.

Some have rejected Israel's appearance and presence in Indonesia given the absence of diplomatic relations with Indonesia.

This polemic ultimately resulted in the cancellation of the 2023 U-20 World Cup drawing. FIFA decided to cancel the draw in Bali due to a wave of rejections against Israel that occurred in Indonesia.

"The new host will be announced as soon as possible, with the current tournament date still unchanged," the FIFA statement said.