Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian government is aiming to host the 2028 FIFA Futsal World Cup following the successful hosting of the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup in Jakarta, which was held from January 27 to February 7.
Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir stated that Indonesia's success as a host received high praise from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), including for the final match between Indonesia and Iran.
"They said it was the best final that they have ever seen—not just in terms of the competition itself, but from the very start of the tournament. The AFC really appreciated the massive crowds," he said in an official statement in Jakarta on Sunday.
According to him, the positive assessment provides a strong foundation for Indonesia to bid to host another world-class futsal event.
“The government sees this as an opportunity. If possible, we want to submit a bid for Indonesia to host the Futsal World Cup,” Thohir said.
He acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly regarding the possibility of the Futsal World Cup being held in Asia again, which would require further discussions with FIFA.
“If Indonesia hosts it, that would mean Asia hosting the tournament twice in a row. This certainly needs to be discussed with FIFA,” he added.
In the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup final, Indonesia lost to Iran in a 4–5 penalty shootout after the two teams were tied 5–5 following extra time.
Despite missing out on the title, the runner-up finish marked Indonesia’s best-ever achievement in the history of the tournament.
