Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.   Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo has guaranteed the safety of Bahrain’s national football team ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.

“There’s no security threat that could endanger the Bahrain team. If they claim it's unsafe, we strongly disagree,” Dito said at the Presidential Palace on Monday (21/10/2024).

He asserted that there’s no reason for Bahrain to refuse playing in Indonesia.

 “FIFA has confirmed the match will be held in Indonesia. If they don’t show up, they will forfeit,” Minister Dito said, as quoted by antaranews.com.

Bahrain had requested to move the match, scheduled for March 2025, citing safety concerns following a controversial 2-2 draw with Indonesia in a previous match.

Minister Dito reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to ensuring a secure and fair environment for both teams.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)