Prabowo Pushes PSSI to Improve Football Structure for World Cup Bid

Prabowo Urges PSSI to Overhaul National Football Framework for World Cup Aspiration

Prabowo Pushes PSSI to Improve Football - TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has directed the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) and the Minister of Youth and Sports, Erick Thohir, to implement sweeping reforms in the country’s football competition system. His aim is to strengthen the national team’s foundation and position Indonesia as a serious contender for the 2030 World Cup. This push comes amid ongoing efforts to elevate the sport’s structure and ensure long-term competitiveness.

Domestic Competition as Cornerstone of National Development

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi emphasized Prabowo’s belief that cultivating a robust domestic competition is vital for nurturing talent and building a formidable national squad. "If we aim to qualify for the World Cup, we must approach our preparations with greater maturity," Prasetyo stated in a written declaration dated June 19, 2026. He highlighted the necessity of prioritizing grassroots development and systemic improvements to create a sustainable pathway for Indonesia’s football ambitions.

"Improving our competition environment will allow us to produce a national team that embodies resilience, passion, and the ability to fulfill the hopes of the Indonesian people," Prasetyo added.

Prabowo’s focus on domestic competition reflects a strategic shift from short-term gains to long-term growth. The reform agenda includes refining league structures, enhancing youth academies, and ensuring fair play across all levels. Prasetyo noted that the current World Cup 2026 campaign has generated widespread enthusiasm, with Indonesians rallying around the national team through communal viewing events nationwide. These gatherings, he said, have not only boosted public engagement but also created economic opportunities for local businesses and event organizers.

Grassroots Tournaments and Talent Cultivation

Meanwhile, Erick Thohir has reiterated his commitment to fostering grassroots football initiatives. He stressed that this approach is fundamental to developing a pipeline of national talent. "Strong grassroots programs will ensure that young players receive the training and exposure needed to thrive at higher levels," Thohir explained. His strategy also involves balancing the integration of naturalized players with the growth of local talent, a topic that has sparked both support and debate within the football community.

"Naturalized players bring valuable experience and skill to the national team, but we must not overlook the potential of our indigenous athletes," Thohir said.

Thohir acknowledged that the naturalization of foreign players of Indonesian descent remains a key component of PSSI’s strategy to bolster the national team’s capabilities. He highlighted the sacrifices these players make to represent their heritage, often adapting to new cultures and training regimens. However, he emphasized that this policy must be complemented by efforts to enhance the quality of local competitions and invest in regional resources.

Despite the current World Cup 2026 campaign, Thohir admitted that Indonesia’s chances of qualifying this year remain uncertain. "While we are excited about the global stage, our focus must remain on building a competitive structure that will yield results in the coming years," he remarked. The President’s directive aligns with this vision, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in creating a more resilient football ecosystem.

Public Support as Critical to National Success

Prasetyo called on the public to rally behind the national team, emphasizing that collective support can significantly influence the sport’s trajectory. "Every fan’s encouragement and prayers can inspire players to perform at their best," he said. The politician also pointed out that the World Cup 2026 qualifiers have provided a platform to gauge the team’s progress, despite the challenges faced in the current cycle.

As the country gears up for the 2030 World Cup, Prabowo’s leadership is seen as a pivotal factor in revitalizing Indonesian football. His emphasis on long-term planning and structural reforms has sparked discussions about the role of policy in shaping the sport’s future. Analysts argue that while the national team’s performance in the 2026 tournament may have fallen short, the groundwork laid now could position Indonesia for success in the next decade.

Strategies for a Sustainable Football Landscape

Thohir’s vision for grassroots development includes expanding youth tournaments, improving coaching standards, and increasing infrastructure investment. He believes that a strong foundation at the local level will produce players capable of competing internationally. "We need to ensure that every young athlete has access to quality training and opportunities to showcase their skills," he stated.

The naturalization strategy, while controversial, is viewed as a pragmatic approach to address immediate talent gaps. Thohir acknowledged that foreign players have contributed to the national team’s cohesion and tactical depth, but he also stressed the importance of nurturing homegrown talent. "We must balance both approaches to ensure that the national team remains strong in the long run," he said.

Prabowo’s administration has also pledged to streamline bureaucratic processes and allocate more funding to football programs. This includes streamlining the selection of coaches and managers, as well as creating incentives for clubs to invest in youth development. "Efficiency and transparency are essential to achieving our goals," Prasetyo noted, underscoring the need for a cohesive strategy that unites all sectors of the football community.

A Pathway to Global Recognition

With the 2030 World Cup on the horizon, Indonesia’s football officials are working to align their initiatives with the global standards required for qualification. Prasetyo highlighted the importance of creating a competitive environment that mirrors international benchmarks, ensuring that players are consistently challenged and prepared for high-stakes matches.

Thohir’s emphasis on grassroots growth aligns with Prabowo’s broader vision of national development. By investing in local talent and improving the domestic competition, the duo aims to create a self-sustaining football culture. This approach, however, requires patience and consistency, as the results of such reforms may not be immediate.

Public engagement and support are considered vital to this process. Prasetyo noted that the excitement surrounding the World Cup 2026 has already demonstrated the nation’s passion for football, which can be harnessed to drive future progress. "We must leverage this momentum to build a stronger, more unified football identity," he said.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

While the reforms are ambitious, challenges such as financial constraints, administrative inefficiencies, and a lack of standardized training programs persist. Prasetyo acknowledged these hurdles but remained optimistic about the potential for improvement. "Every step forward is a victory, and we are committed to making continuous progress," he stated.

Thohir also addressed the role of technology and modernization in football development. He mentioned that digital platforms are being used to engage fans, share training resources, and monitor player performance. "Innovative solutions can bridge gaps in traditional methods and accelerate our development," he said.

As Indonesia moves closer to the 2030 World Cup, the collaboration between the government and football authorities is expected to intensify. Prabowo’s directive to PSSI and Erick Thohir marks a new chapter in the nation’s football journey, one that prioritizes structural integrity, long-term planning, and community involvement. The success of these initiatives will determine whether Indonesia can finally achieve its dream of qualifying for the World Cup.

Read more about Prabowo’s recent moves to enhance the national team's prospects: Why Did Prabowo Summon John Herdman, Erick Thohir to Hambalang?

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