Erick Thohir Takes AFC Secretary-General on ISS 2026 Booth Tour

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir accompanied Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Secretary-General Datuk Seri Windsor John on a tour of ISS 2026 booths in Jakarta. The two visited the FIFA Office and I League booths at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

Windsor John also watched the Jakarta Hybrid Race (JHR) at ISS 2026 during the visit. The tour followed his presentation at the Global Leadership Forum on building a sustainable football ecosystem.

During the session, Windsor John discussed how countries can build sustainable football ecosystems from grassroots development to elite performance. He also shared his experience in developing football systems in countries with large territories and island-based geography.

Windsor John said Indonesia needs several key elements to strengthen its football ecosystem. These include opportunities for children to play football, quality coaches, healthy and competitive competitions, and collaboration among the government and other stakeholders.

He said Indonesian football has made significant progress in terms of achievements. Indonesia's performances in the Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, he said, show that the country is a football giant that has risen again.

Windsor John also highlighted the football programs developed by the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI). Combined with strong public enthusiasm, he believes these efforts can help Indonesian football achieve greater success in the future.

He said Indonesia has the potential to become one of the strongest football nations in Asia. The continued development of its football ecosystem will be important to sustaining that progress.

“I believe the resurgence of Indonesian football will become part of the resurgence of Asian football,” Windsor John said.

His visit to ISS 2026 also reflected the growing international attention toward Indonesia's sports development. Through stronger grassroots development, competitive competitions, and broad collaboration, Indonesia is seeking to strengthen its position in Asian football.