AFC Secretary-General: Indonesia as Major Asian Football Power

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Secretary-General Datuk Seri Windsor John, sees Indonesia as a potential major football power in Asia. Speaking at the Global Leadership Forum of Indonesia Sports Summit 2026 in Jakarta on Sunday, September 13, 2026, he highlighted Indonesia's growing football potential.

He said Indonesia has strong spirit, talent, and a developing football structure. Sustainable progress requires a strong ecosystem covering grassroots development, youth players, competitions, professional clubs, and quality coaches.

Windsor also emphasized the importance of cooperation among the Indonesian government, football federation, clubs, schools, communities, and private sector. He said each stakeholder needs a shared vision to develop Indonesian football sustainably.

“Success in football cannot be built on passion alone. Passion provides the foundation, but sustainable success requires vision, investment, strong institutions, and a clear pathway from grassroots to elite performance,” he said.

Indonesia's progress was also reflected in its national team's performance and football development. The country reached the round of 16 at the 2023 Asian Cup and showed stronger competitiveness during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

The development also extends to futsal, with Indonesia finishing as runner-up at the 2026 Asian Futsal Cup. Its experience hosting international events, including the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup, has further strengthened its role in global football.

The AFC continues supporting its 47 member associations through various development programs. These include grassroots football, youth competitions, coaching education, club licensing, referee development, and administrative capacity building.

“Indonesia has the spirit and talent, and is increasingly building the structures needed to turn that potential into sustainable success,” Windsor added.