FIFA stripped Indonesia of U-20 World Cup hosting rights in 2023 over its refusal to allow Israel to participate, citing political rather than sporting grounds.
Key Facts
- Decision date
- March 30, 2023
- Tournament affected
- 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup
- Scheduled tournament start
- May 2023
- Body that ruled
- FIFA (world governing body of football)
- Financial penalty
- Sanction imposed on PSSI for breaching host obligations
- Subsequent hosting role
- Indonesia hosted 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Indonesia refused to allow Israel to participate in the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, reflecting the country's pro-Palestine stance and absence of diplomatic ties with Israel. Regional governors publicly opposed hosting Israeli players, creating an impasse that FIFA determined constituted a breach of its non-discrimination principles and host obligations.
On March 30, 2023, FIFA formally stripped Indonesia of its hosting rights for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, citing 'current circumstances' arising from the political opposition to Israel's participation. FIFA simultaneously imposed a financial sanction on the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) for failing to fulfill its duties as host country.
The decision triggered widespread disappointment and anger among Indonesian football fans and players, who had anticipated a major showcase for the sport domestically. Indonesia was subsequently offered and accepted hosting of the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup after Peru withdrew, partially restoring the country's role in international youth football that year.