Fifa U-20 World Cup draw cancelled in Indonesia, as controversy grows over Israel participation

Indonesians take part in a rally to reject the participation of Israel's team in the Fifa U-20 World Cup, in Jakarta, on March 20. - AFP

JAKARTA (The Jakarta Post/Asia News Network): Indonesia’s hosting duty for the 2023 U-20 World Cup is suddenly being called into question, after world soccer’s governing body Fifa moved to cancel the tournament’s group stage draw in Bali scheduled for March 31, amid growing opposition to the participation of Israel.

A number of regional heads and chapters from the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle have been vocal in their criticism in recent days, although analysts believe their statements are politically motivated.