Indonesia backs Australia for 2022

World's fourth largest nation backs Australia in bid to host FIFA World Cup™

JOHANNESBURG 11 JUNE 2010 By Rod Allen

The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) has today come out in support of Australia-s bid to host the FIFA World Cup™ in 2022.

In what is a significant show of friendship and support between the PSSI and Football Federation Australia (FFA), the backing throws further momentum behind Australia-s campaign to host the world-s biggest sporting tournament.

Indonesia had initially indicated their desire to formally bid to host the FIFA World Cup™. The backing of a key player within the Asian Football Confederation, and also the fourth largest country by population, highlights the strengths of Australia-s bid. FFA Chairman Frank Lowy AC, has been leading the Bid Team in South Africa this week, delivering Australia-s vision to put on the best World Cup ever, directly to members of FIFA-s Executive Committee

“It is with great pleasure that I can tell the world of our support for Australia-s bid to host the FIFA World Cup™” says PSSI President Nurdin Halid

“The PSSI has developed a strong bond with the FFA and I have seen with my own eyes the dedication and support for the World Cup amongst the Australian people. We have seen some great scenes of celebration here in South Africa in recent days and I can say with confidence the people of Australia will put on a show second to none.

“Australia is the only continent left not to have hosted the FIFA World Cup™. Bringing the tournament to Australia will greatly enhance the development of football across the region and further into Asia.

“The financial pull of a FIFA World Cup™ in Asia is also compelling. All of Asia would both enjoy and benefit from a FIFA World Cup™ in Australia.”

FFA Chairman Frank Lowy AC says he welcomes the public support of the PSSI.

“I am grateful to President Halid and the PSSI for this public declaration. Our friendship is strong and to have the backing of the PSSI only serves to reaffirm my belief in our bid and in the excellent tournament and welcome we would give the world in 2022.

“I have been having a busy and productive week in speaking directly to members of FIFA-s Executive Committee. I am heartened by the response I am receiving, although there is plenty of work still do over the coming months.

“Australia kick off their World Cup campaign on Sunday and I know our supporters, both here in South Africa and back home will show FIFA how much they support football and the FIFA World Cup™.”

The PSSI and FFA signed a landmark agreement earlier this year. Under the five-year deal, FFA will assist the PSSI in the development of coaches, players, referees, grassroots football and women-s football and host training visits for Indonesian players, coaches and officials.

A key part of the agreement will see the PSSI assist the FFA to fully integrate into South East Asian football and the ASEAN Football Federation and provide competition for Australian teams at a range of age levels and formats.