In a significant development for regional football, Indonesia has expressed its intention to co-host the prestigious 2025 U-20 World Cup alongside Singapore. This announcement, made by Indonesian President Joko Widodo on December 4, has ignited excitement and anticipation in both countries’ football communities.
Indonesia’s Initiative
President Joko Widodo confirmed that Indonesia’s football association, PSSI, alongside the Football Association of Singapore (FAS), has signed a declaration of interest to jointly host the U-20 World Cup in 2025. President Widodo expressed confidence in the ability of both nations to successfully host the tournament, citing strong cooperative potential.
FAS’s Supportive Stance
FAS, on the same day, acknowledged the submission of a letter of intent to FIFA, discussing the prospect of co-hosting future editions of the U-20 and U-17 World Cups with Indonesia starting from 2025. The association noted that the proposal is in an exploratory phase, and any formal bid would require thorough development and collaboration with FIFA, PSSI, and relevant Singaporean agencies.
Indonesia’s Previous Hosting Rights Withdrawal
Indonesia’s eagerness to host the U-20 World Cup comes after a setback earlier in the year. In March 2023, FIFA withdrew Indonesia’s hosting rights for the 2023 U-20 World Cup due to political opposition within the country concerning Israel’s participation. Additionally, the decision followed a tragic incident in which 135 spectators lost their lives in a stadium stampede during a domestic match in Indonesia.
Prospects of a Joint Bid
Despite these past challenges, the new bid represents a fresh opportunity for Indonesia to showcase its capabilities on the international football stage. Collaborating with Singapore, known for its organizational prowess and world-class facilities, could significantly strengthen the bid’s chances of success.
Conclusion
The joint bid to host the 2025 U-20 World Cup marks a significant moment in Southeast Asian football. If successful, it will not only boost the sport’s profile in the region but also demonstrate the collaborative spirit and capabilities of Indonesia and Singapore. As both nations await FIFA’s decision, the football world watches with anticipation, hoping for a successful outcome that could redefine football hosting standards in Southeast Asia.
Also learn about Raising Future Stars: Exploring Football Academies in Singapore.
