Why did Indonesia get stripped of the Under-20 World Cup?
FOOTBALL fans are gearing up for the Under-20 World Cup which starts NEXT week – but it the tournament had a drastic change in location.
The mouthwatering competition was initially meant to be played in Indonesia.
But FIFA president Gianni Infantino held a meeting with Indonesian Soccer Federation president Erick Thohir to inform him that his country has been stripped of the rights to be host.
And SunSport can reveal the reason why.
Why did Indonesia get stripped of the Under-20 World Cup?
Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country, were initially scheduled to put on the event this summer.
But the Asian nation were stripped of hosting duties by Fifa after refusing to host participating side Israel following protests that saw civilians march with Indonesian and Palestinian flags.
And it has been a big blow for all Indonesians it would of been their first appearance at an Under-20 World Cup since 1979.
What has been said?
Following confirmation of the devastating blow for Indonesian football, Thohir said: “Indonesia is a Fifa member, so for any international soccer matters, we have to abide by the rules.
“I ask all football lovers to keep their heads held high over this tough decision by Fifa. It’s time we proved to Fifa to work harder to transform soccer, towards clean and high-achieving soccer.”
Who is hosting the Under-20 World Cup instead?
Argentina have quickly been selected by Fifa to replace Indonesia as hosts for the tournament, which is due to begin on May 20.
This will also see the Albiceleste replace Indonesia in the competition.
Mascherano resigned as coach after his side’s South American Championship flop – but the Argentine federation were successful in persuading the footballing icon to pulling a U-turn.