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FIFA U-20 World Cup draw canceled as controversy grows over Israel participation
Indonesia’s hosting of the 2023 U-20 World Cup hangs in the balance, after FIFA moved to cancel the tournament’s group stage draw in Bali scheduled for March 31 amid growing opposition to Israel's participation.
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A general view shows the Gelora Bung Karno main stadium ahead of the closing ceremony of the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta on September 2, 2018.
(AFP/Bay Ismoyo)
I
ndonesia’s hosting duty for the 2023 U-20 World Cup is suddenly being called into question, after world soccer’s governing body FIFA moved to cancel the tournament’s group stage draw in Bali scheduled for March 31, amid growing opposition to the participation of Israel.
A number of regional heads and chapters from the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) have been vocal in their criticism in recent days, although analysts believe their statements are politically motivated.
With slightly less than two months left before the youth competition begins, all eyes are on the government to be able to decisively curb the swell of political protest against a global sports event that many prefer to keep apolitical.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, a member of the Soccer Association of Indonesia’s (PSSI) executive committee, Arya Sinulingga, said the draw to determine the group fixtures had been canceled without further notice.
“For now, we’re still trying to figure out a way for Indonesia not to be ostracized by the global soccer community,” Arya said at the Gelora Bung Karno stadium in South Jakarta.
He said PSSI head Erick Thohir would report this development to President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and a crisis call with FIFA may be on the cards in the next few days. FIFA was not immediately available for comment.
Read also: Ganjar calls for ban on Israeli soccer team from FIFA U-20 World Cup
