Erick Thohir Inspects Si Jalak Harupat Stadium: 80% of Branding Ready, FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 Kicks Off Tomorrow

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir said Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Soreang, Bandung Regency, is ready to host the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, which runs from 25 September to 2 October. The assurance came after he inspected the stadium directly with West Java Police Chief Pipit Rismanto, Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna, and FIFA representatives on Thursday (24/9/2026).

The inspection covered several crucial aspects, from branding installation and pitch quality to supporting facilities. Erick said match branding was about 80 percent installed, while the pitch had received FIFA's approval and was declared fit for use. "Alhamdulillah, today we wanted to make sure preparations at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium are running as usual. That means it is already good," he told the media after the inspection.

On accommodation, FIFA has booked a number of hotels in Bandung. Erick stressed that all logistics and transportation needs for participating teams are covered by FIFA, not the Indonesian government. "FIFA has booked many hotels in Bandung. The money is from FIFA, not from us. All logistics, transportation for the teams that play, all of that is from FIFA," he said.

Erick also highlighted the quality of the teams that will compete. Because the tournament takes place during the FIFA Matchday period, clubs around the world are required to release their players. Vietnam, for example, has brought its best players, including naturalized ones; Thailand is fielding a full squad; the Philippines is strengthened by many players of heritage descent. "So, I think this is high-quality play because it is indeed under the FIFA break," Erick explained.

"This is not just a football match, but how the government under Mr. President wants to have big international events. This is one of them that he fully supports."

— Erick Thohir, PSSI Chairman

Government support through a government guarantee was a key factor in Indonesia's selection as host, after competing with several other countries. Erick believes hosting international events can bring economic impact to the region, especially from the arrival of teams, officials, and tourists. He also sees this momentum as a chance to showcase Indonesia's infrastructure progress, such as the high-speed train that participants had just tried. "Earlier the participants rode the high-speed train and it was very fast for them because they don't have one yet. So it is a positive thing, we also show the infrastructure development that has been built," he added.

Although focused on venue readiness, Erick took time to mention the rivalry between Persija Jakarta and Persib Bandung, which is temporarily set aside to strengthen the Indonesia national team. Several players from both clubs, such as Jordi Amat, Rizky Ridho, and Dony Tri, are ready to work together. This shows that national interests come above club egos.

Going forward, Erick promised to announce several surprises to boost spectator interest, especially among the people of Bandung. "Hopefully this will be a good event. Later I will also announce some surprises, what they are to boost spectator interest, especially in Bandung. I will share them next. So, let's support it," he urged.

The question is, will this event become a turning point for the revival of Indonesian football on the regional stage, or merely a ceremony? Time will tell, but thorough preparation and support from all parties are absolute prerequisites.