He stated that FIFA will re-examine the stadium for the U-17 World Cup, as the earlier renovation aimed to comply with the requirements for the U-20 World Cup, which failed to take place in Indonesia.
"The stadium is already fit for the U-20 World Cup, but there will be another renovation since the U-17 World Cup has slightly different requirements. Perhaps, the grass stitching will continue," Jokowi said after reviewing the stadium.
Conducted by the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing, the stadium's renovation covered stadium seats, the grass field, lighting, toilets, and stadium entry access.
The president clarified that FIFA, not he, has the final say in determining whether the stadium qualifies as the venue for the U-17 World Cup.
"Our duty is to prepare, improve, and renovate. Once FIFA comes here and determines it is ready, that means this stadium qualifies," he stated.
Jokowi said that six to eight stadiums will be proposed as the venues for the FIFA U-17 World Cup matches. He emphasized that all decisions will be made by FIFA.
During the same occasion, the president also observed the selection process for the U-17 national football team at the stadium, where 187 young footballers from West Java competed for a place in the national team.
On June 23, 2023, FIFA determined that Indonesia will replace Peru as the host of the U-17 World Cup, which is expected to take place from November 10 to December 2 this year.
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Translator: Bagus Ahmad R, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Anton Santoso
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