PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir Expresses Gratitude as Indonesia Confirmed Host of FIFA Series 2026
PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir has conveyed profound appreciation to FIFA following Indonesia’s official appointment as the host nation for the prestigious FIFA Series in 2026. This much-anticipated event is slated to take place in March 2026, marking a significant milestone for Indonesian football on the global stage.
Erick Thohir highlighted that this decision underscores the continuing positive relationship between Indonesia and FIFA, reinforcing the nation’s growing prominence within international football. He also expressed immense pride in Indonesia once again being entrusted with hosting an official FIFA tournament, a testament to the country’s capabilities and dedication.
This upcoming event follows Indonesia’s successful stint as host of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2023, showcasing its proven track record in organizing major international competitions. Speaking in Jakarta on Friday, November 21, 2025, Erick Thohir announced, “I have received news from FIFA that our diligent lobbying efforts have yielded positive results. Indonesia has officially been granted the honor of hosting the FIFA Series next year.”
“Praise be to God, we have once again been given the mandate to organize an official FIFA tournament,” he added, conveying a sense of gratitude and responsibility for the opportunity.
The FIFA Series, formerly known as the FIFA World Series, is a biennial tournament designed to bring together national teams from various confederations for a series of international friendly matches, fostering global football connections and competitive development.
OFFICIAL: Indonesia National Team to Host FIFA Series 2026
The inaugural edition of this unique tournament was successfully held in 2024, setting a precedent for future events. For the 2026 iteration, Indonesia is set to welcome participating teams from five confederations outside of Asia, promising a diverse and exciting lineup. The specific nations participating in the tournament will be officially announced by FIFA in due course.
This prestigious FIFA Series event is poised to be a momentous occasion for the Indonesian National Team, offering invaluable opportunities for growth and exposure. Erick Thohir emphasized that the tournament presents a significant chance for Indonesian football to gain crucial competitive experience by playing against teams from other confederations, opponents they rarely encounter in regular fixtures. He further highlighted the importance of this opportunity for the development of players, coaches, and the overall strategic advancement of the Indonesian National Team’s gameplay.
“I deeply appreciate the trust that FIFA has once again bestowed upon Indonesia,” stated Erick Thohir, reiterating his gratitude. He continued, “This clearly demonstrates that FIFA acknowledges the tremendous enthusiasm of both the Indonesian football federation and its passionate supporters, who are genuinely committed to developing football and capable of hosting global-scale events.”
The 55-year-old Chairman also extended his appreciation to President Prabowo Subianto, recognizing his significant role in securing Indonesia’s appointment as the host of the FIFA Series 2026. “Undoubtedly, this success is also a direct result of the unwavering and full support provided by President Prabowo Subianto, who has consistently championed the advancement of Indonesian football on the international stage,” Thohir affirmed. “For his crucial backing, I extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. President,” he concluded.
Beyond the FIFA Series 2026 hosting announcement, Erick Thohir also confirmed that FIFA President Gianni Infantino is scheduled to attend the AFF Congress, set to take place in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 22-23, 2025. According to Erick, Infantino’s presence at the congress is crucial for advancing discussions regarding a proposed FIFA ASEAN tournament. This new agenda is being actively promoted and holds the potential to significantly reshape the football landscape across Southeast Asia.
Summary
Indonesia has been officially appointed to host the FIFA Series in March 2026, a decision for which PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir expressed profound gratitude to FIFA. This marks a significant milestone, reinforcing the nation’s positive relationship with FIFA and its proven capability to organize major international competitions, following the successful FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2023. Thohir announced that diligent lobbying efforts secured this honor, entrusting Indonesia with another official FIFA tournament.
The FIFA Series is a biennial tournament designed for international friendly matches among national teams from various confederations. For the 2026 event, Indonesia will host teams from five non-Asian confederations, offering its national team invaluable competitive experience against diverse opponents. Erick Thohir emphasized this as a crucial opportunity for player development and strategic advancement of Indonesian football, also extending appreciation to President Prabowo Subianto for his unwavering support.