Jakarta. Newly-appointed Youth and Sports Minister, Erick Thohir, will continue to serve as chairman of the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) following FIFA’s confirmation that his dual role does not constitute a conflict of interest. The ruling comes via an official letter received on Monday.

Speaking to reporters Tuesday, Thohir said FIFA’s clearance allows him to manage both positions “clean and clear,” while maintaining balance in his ministerial responsibilities.

“I received a letter from FIFA stating that, based on my track record in football, there is no conflict of interest. So I am clean and clear. As minister, I will ensure balance in all aspects,” Thohir said.

Addressing concerns that football might become the government’s “favored child,” Thohir clarified that his focus would be broader. “It’s not possible for football alone to be the golden child. My priority will include 13 or 14 leading sports disciplines. Other sports will also be reorganized and supported appropriately,” he said.

Thohir expressed gratitude to FIFA and President Prabowo Subianto for their confidence. “I thank FIFA for their trust, and the President also expressed confidence in my ability to handle both roles. I wanted formal confirmation first before making any public statements,” he added.

With FIFA’s endorsement, Thohir is set to remain PSSI chairman through 2027.

Earlier, Thohir outlined plans to strengthen collaboration between ministries, sports federations, and related communities to maximize efficiency and effectiveness. “The President also asked me to align our programs with the  Social Affairs Ministry. Given limited budgets, we need to coordinate with multiple ministries to ensure programs are effective and efficient,” he said at the Ministry of Youth and Sports headquarters last week.

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