Celvin Moniaga Sipahutar, Jakarta – Newly appointed Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir said Wednesday he remains chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) for now, but his future in the role will be determined by FIFA.
"Today, yes, I am still PSSI chairman. When I was State-Owned Enterprises Minister, it was also valid under the statutes," Thohir told reporters after his swearing-in ceremony at the Presidential Palace. President Prabowo Subianto reshuffled his cabinet earlier this week, moving Thohir from the SOEs Ministry to replace outgoing Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo.
The former Inter Milan owner said he would formally write to FIFA following his appointment and urged the public to wait for the governing body's response. "I don't know what happens next; I haven't received FIFA's letter yet. Every sport has its international federation, and there are rules to follow," he said.
FIFA statutes require national football associations to remain independent and free from government interference. If a sitting sports minister also serves as head of a football federation, the dual role could be considered a conflict, potentially violating FIFA's rules. Member associations that breach the principles of independence and non-interference risk sanctions, including suspension from international competitions and cuts to financial support.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Thohir on his new cabinet post. "My heartfelt congratulations to @erickthohir on being appointed as Indonesia's new Minister of Youth and Sports," Infantino wrote on Instagram. "As @pssi President, he has done excellent work, and I am confident he will bring leadership and vision to this new role."
As sports minister, Thohir will oversee preparations for Indonesia's participation in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand and guide the nation's efforts toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.