Jakarta, June 7, 2025 – The Europe Today: Chairperson of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir, has praised the government’s unprecedented support for national football, revealing an annual assistance package worth Rp200 billion (approximately US$12.2 million).
Speaking to reporters after a luncheon hosted by President Prabowo Subianto at his private residence on Friday, Thohir said,
“The government has supported national football with almost Rp200 billion per year. That is an extraordinary number — the largest support provided to football so far under any administration.”
When asked about potential rewards should Indonesia qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Thohir noted that the substantial government funding already demonstrates deep appreciation.
“With this support, the national team need not expect additional assistance for their achievements. The government’s commitment speaks for itself,” he added.
President Prabowo Subianto welcomed the national team players, coaches, and PSSI officials to a celebratory lunch at his Kertanegara residence, recognizing their victory over China (1-0) on Thursday — a crucial win that secured Indonesia’s place in Round Four of the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers.
The President was joined by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi, Pertamina President Director Simon Aloysius Mantiri, and PSSI Chair Erick Thohir.
Following the win, Indonesia now holds fourth place in Group C with 12 points, trailing Japan (20 points), Australia (16 points), and Saudi Arabia (13 points). Bahrain and China, each with 6 points, are out of contention with only one qualifying match remaining.
The historic government backing comes at a time of rising momentum and national pride in Indonesian football, as the team eyes its first-ever appearance in a FIFA World Cup.
