Erick Thohir, Chairman of the Indonesian Football Federation (PSSI), has announced that Bali will be the host for the U-17 Women’s Asian Cup (AFC) scheduled to take place from May 6 to 16, 2024. This declaration was made during the inauguration ceremony of the Bali Beach Convention and the groundbreaking event for the Alster Lake Clinic on Tuesday, 30th January 2024.
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Erick Thohir has communicated this information to Bali’s Acting Governor, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, urging the Bali government to be proactive in preparing necessary infrastructure, including transportation, football stadiums, accommodations, and various other arrangements, to meet the needs of all participants.
“We have decided to host the Women’s Asian Cup (AFC) U-17 in Bali, scheduled from 6th to 16th May. So, I’m entrusting the Governor to ensure its success; let’s not miss this opportunity. It’s a chance to restore Bali’s image and establish it as a renowned sports tourism destination,” said Erick Thohir, as quoted by CNN Indonesia.
Erick has placed his trust in Bali’s Acting Governor, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, emphasizing the importance of not repeating the issues faced during the U-20 World Cup. He sees this event as a golden opportunity for Bali to enhance its reputation in terms of natural and cultural attractions and sports tourism.
It is well-documented that in 2023, the then-Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, rejected hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup, sparking negative sentiments from various societal communities.
The decision not to include Bali as one of the hosts for the U-17 World Cup in 2023 was influenced by multiple factors. These factors included the incident involving the Israeli national team’s refusal to participate in the competition and stadium conflicts between Bali United and Arema FC, utilizing the Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium.
Therefore, there is hope that the U-17 Women’s Asian Cup in 2024 will mark a pivotal moment for Bali to enhance its standing in sports tourism.
