Indonesia’s preparation for the 2023 U-17 World Cup has hit a roadblock as the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) and Erick Thohir, the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, refuse to disclose the field that will be used for the tournament. This decision has raised concerns about the availability of the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, which is also scheduled to host a concert by the popular British band Coldplay.
FIFA appointed Indonesia as the host for the 2023 U-17 World Cup, replacing Peru due to infrastructure issues. However, this is not the first time Indonesia has faced hosting challenges. Previously, the country was set to host the 2023 U-20 World Cup, but FIFA revoked its hosting status after local government intervention regarding Israel’s participation.
In preparation for the U-20 World Cup, Indonesia had prepared five stadiums, including Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Gelora Bung Tomo, Gelora Jakabaring, Captain I Wayan Dipta Stadium, and Si Jalak Harupat Stadium. However, the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium is now in doubt due to drainage problems.
The 2023 U-17 World Cup is scheduled to take place from 10 November to 2 December 2023. If the tournament is held at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, it will clash with the Coldplay concert scheduled for 15 November 2023.
During a PSSI reporter meeting at the Danareksa Tower in Jakarta, Erick Thohir expressed caution about revealing the venue for the U-17 World Cup. He stated that he would wait for FIFA’s directives before making any announcements. Thohir emphasized that the event is a shared commitment between the government and local authorities, and he hopes that respecting their own nation will earn respect from other nations.
Thohir also acknowledged the importance of both the U-17 World Cup and the Coldplay concert for Indonesia. He assured that a solution would be found to accommodate both events, but did not provide any details.
The uncertainty surrounding the field for the U-17 World Cup has raised concerns among football fans and concert-goers alike. It remains to be seen how the PSSI and Erick Thohir will navigate this situation and ensure the successful hosting of both events.
Watch Video “FIFA Appoints Indonesia to Host the 2023 U-17 World Cup”
What impact does the lack of transparency surrounding the venue selection for the 2023 U-17 World Cup have on the confidence and excitement of football enthusiasts?
T in 2023. The lack of transparency surrounding the venue selection has led to speculation and uncertainty among football enthusiasts.
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) and Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, Erick Thohir, have come under fire for their reluctance to reveal the field that will be utilized for the 2023 U-17 World Cup. Given that the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, one of the country’s prominent sporting arenas, is already slated to host a concert in the same year, concerns about its availability for the tournament have surfaced.
The decision to withhold information about the tournament’s venue has raised eyebrows and generated unease within the football community. The lack of transparency regarding the field selection process has left many speculating on the suitability of alternate venues and the future of U-17 World Cup preparations in Indonesia.
Football enthusiasts and supporters of the Indonesian national team eagerly await clarification from the PSSI and Minister Thohir regarding the matter. Clear communication and a transparent decision-making process are imperative to maintain the confidence and excitement surrounding this significant event for Indonesian football.
As the nation strives to successfully host the U-17 World Cup in 2023, it is essential that the PSSI and responsible authorities promptly address the concerns raised by this issue. Ensuring the availability of a suitable venue and providing accurate information will not only alleviate doubts but also demonstrate the country’s commitment to organizing a memorable and well-executed tournament.
Despite the current roadblock, it is optimistic that the Indonesian Football Association and Minister Thohir will work diligently to resolve these concerns and guarantee a successful U-17 World Cup in 2023. The enthusiasm of fans and the country’s passion for football should motivate the involved parties to put the necessary measures in place and secure a suitable venue for hosting this prestigious event.
“The clash between a Coldplay concert and a FIFA U-17 World Cup match at GBK Stadium highlights the conflicting interests in hosting events. While music enthusiasts may be delighted, FIFA fans are left disappointed and wondering if this was the best decision for such a prestigious tournament.”