Naturalized Striker Luke Vickery Fuels Indonesia’s World Cup Dream

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s football hopes received a symbolic boost as Luke Anthony Vickery officially took his oath of citizenship at the Indonesian Consulate General in Sydney on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

His official pledge of allegiance to Indonesia has quickly become more than just a ceremonial milestone. It has ignited hopes of seeing Indonesia on the global stage at the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The naturalization of the 19‑year‑old footballer, born in Kailua, Honolulu, was witnessed by senior officials, including Deputy Ambassador to Australia Lintang Paramitasari Parnohadiningrat and Consul General Leonard Sondakh.

Indonesian Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas underscored the significance of Vickery’s new status, expressing optimism that the young striker could help realize President Prabowo Subianto’s vision.

“I hope Luke will fight alongside his teammates to fulfill the President’s and the Indonesian people’s dream of playing at the 2030 World Cup,” Supratman said, as quoted by Antara.

Vickery’s path to citizenship began earlier this year when the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) proposed his naturalization through the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Following a rigorous review by the cross‑ministerial citizenship committee (TP3K), the House of Representatives endorsed the recommendation on June 17, paving the way for presidential approval.

After the oath, Vickery voiced his determination to honor the red‑and‑white jersey. “I am ready with the team to bring Indonesia to the 2030 World Cup,” he declared.

Tracing his roots, Vickery revealed his Indonesian heritage through his maternal grandmother, who was born in Medan in 1937. Professionally, he currently plays for Macarthur FC in Australia’s A‑League, having previously featured for Western United.

His arrival strengthens Indonesia’s pool of young talent, adding both international experience and a personal commitment to the national cause, fueling hopes that the country’s long‑held World Cup aspirations may finally edge closer to reality. ***