Indonesia confirms cancellation of bid to host 2034 World Cup, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com

Jakarta - Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Erick Thohir has confirmed that Indonesia will cancel its bid to host the 2034 World Cup due to the tight deadline.

Thohir said that Indonesia wanted to bid with Australia. However, it found that the preparations are too tight because the bid’s final deadline is October 31.

Previously, Thohir revealed that the PSSI had discussed with Australia to bid for the 2034 World Cup. His side was also open to the possibility of inviting Malaysia and Singapore.

Apart from Indonesia and Australia, Saudi Arabia has volunteered to host the event. Thohir said that the PSSI has now expressed its support for Saudi.

The official said that Indonesia is still trying to target other FIFA events. Hosting the U-17 World Cup will pave the way for the country to be able to host other world-level championships.

As scheduled, the U-17 World Cup opening ceremony will take place on November 10 with the attendance of FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

The 2034 World Cup is scheduled to take place from mid-June to July 2034. FIFA opened registration for Asian and Oceanian countries interested in hosting the tournament on October 4 and will close it on October 31, 2023.