Indonesia removed as host of Under-20 World Cup
FIFA made the call just weeks before the tournament was due to begin after two of Indonesia's top politicians called for Israel to be banned from the competition.
Federal MP Josh Burns has described football world governing body FIFA’s decision to strip Indonesia of hosting the Under-20 World Cup as “appropriate”.
FIFA made the call just weeks before the tournament was due to begin after two of Indonesia’s top politicians called for Israel to be banned from the competition.
The Indonesian football federation (PSSI) had cancelled the draw for the tournament because the governor of Bali refused to host Israel’s team.
“FIFA has decided, due to the current circumstances, to remove Indonesia as the host of the U-20 World Cup 2023,” a FIFA statement said.
“A new host will be announced as soon as possible, with the dates of the tournament currently remaining unchanged. Potential sanctions against the PSSI may also be decided at a later stage.”
Indonesian players and fans were left dismayed by the decision, with some players holding up placards depicting black ribbons in a sign of mourning following the announcement.
Burns said, “Sport is a wonderful vehicle to bring people together, to compete, as equals. It was disappointing that Indonesia refused to allow Israel to compete in Bali, and therefore it is appropriate that the FIFA U20s World Cup was moved.
“I look forward to the day that both nations participate peacefully in future competitions and improve their diplomatic relations – something that would greatly benefit both peoples.”
Earlier this month, protesters marched in the capital Jakarta waving Indonesian and Palestinian flags and demanding Israel not be allowed to participate. Indonesia’s population is predominantly Muslim.
FIFA threatened further sanctions and could exclude Indonesia from 2026 World Cup qualifiers that begin in October. The tournament is still scheduled to be held from May 20 to June 11 in a location yet to be announced.
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