FIFA President Hands Over Cups Twice in a Month in Asia
October 7, 2026 ·
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has twice handed over trophies to ASEAN champions in the space of a month, namely Indonesia and Vietnam, as part of efforts to promote football in Southeast Asia.
FIFA President Hands Over Cups Twice in a Month in Asia
According to Vnexpress.
Background
The FIFA ASEAN Cup is an initiative initiated by Gianni Infantino and the AFF, aimed at strengthening football in Southeast Asia. Indonesia, as the host, succeeded in winning the title, marking an important step in their journey to become a football power in the region.
Why this is important
FIFA President Gianni Infantino's visit to Indonesia and Vietnam in the near future shows FIFA's commitment to promoting football in Southeast Asia. With the FIFA ASEAN Cup, it is hoped that it can improve the quality of the game and provide an opportunity for local players to shine on the international stage, including in preparation for the next World Cup.
Main Points
- The President of FIFA Twice in a Month Hands Over the Cup in Asia.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino has twice handed over trophies to ASEAN champions in the space of a month, namely Indonesia and Vietnam, as part of efforts to promote football in Southeast Asia.
- Chủ tịch FIFA hai lần trong một tháng trao giải ở Đông Nam Á - Báo VnExpress Thể thao.
On the evening of October 5 2023, FIFA President Gianni Infantino was present at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, Indonesia to watch the FIFA ASEAN Cup final match between hosts Indonesia and Thailand. This visit is part of a series of important events, where Infantino was also present in Jakarta the day before the final to attend various events related to the tournament.
After the match ended, Infantino and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto took to the field to hand over the trophies to the two teams. The FIFA ASEAN Cup is an initiative initiated by Gianni Infantino and the Southeast Asian Football Confederation (AFF), which is expected to have a positive impact on the development of football in this region. Infantino stated that this tournament will be a platform for the best players in Southeast Asia to showcase their talents at the international level.
In the inaugural edition of this tournament, Indonesia and Hong Kong managed to win the championship title in their respective categories, with both countries showing impressive performances. This victory was a historic moment for Indonesia, which has been trying to improve the quality of its football.
Previously, on August 26 2023, Infantino was also present at Mỹ Đình Stadium, Hanoi, Vietnam, to watch the 2026 ASEAN Cup final between Vietnam and Thailand. On that occasion, Infantino also handed over the trophy to Vietnam who had won the title. Both visits are part of Infantino's strategy to build support ahead of his re-election as FIFA President in March 2027.
During both visits, Infantino was accompanied by the President of the Thai Football Federation, Nualphan Lamsam, known as Madam Pang. Lamsam also saw his team lose again in the final, similar to his previous experience in Hanoi. Currently, he also serves as Chairman of the FIFA Development Committee, which is responsible for managing investment programs and technical support for the 211 football federations around the world.
Erick Thohir, President of the Indonesian Football Federation (PSSI), provided support to Thailand coach, Anthony Hudson, after the match. Thohir, who is a prominent businessman and politician in Indonesia, previously served as owner and president of the Inter Milan football club in Italy. The FIFA ASEAN Cup title is the first achievement for Thohir after working hard to reform football in Indonesia, including strengthening the player naturalization process and preparing the team to compete on the world stage, including participation in the World Cup.
What happened next
After the successful holding of the FIFA ASEAN Cup, attention will now turn to the further development of football in the region. It is hoped that Indonesia and Vietnam can take advantage of this momentum to improve infrastructure and player development programs, as well as prepare for other international competitions, including World Cup qualifiers and regional tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens on October 5 2023 in Jakarta?
On October 5 2023, FIFA President Gianni Infantino was present at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium to watch the FIFA ASEAN Cup final match between Indonesia and Thailand.
Who confirmed attendance at the event?
FIFA President Gianni Infantino's presence at the event was confirmed by reports detailing his participation in the ASEAN Cup final.
Why is Gianni Infantino present in Southeast Asia now?
Infantino is present in Southeast Asia to support and promote the FIFA ASEAN Cup, which is expected to increase the development of football in the region.
What changes are expected from the FIFA ASEAN Cup?
The FIFA ASEAN Cup is expected to be a platform for the best players in Southeast Asia to showcase their talents at the international level.
What were the results of the inaugural edition of the FIFA ASEAN Cup?
In the inaugural edition of the FIFA ASEAN Cup, Indonesia and Hong Kong managed to win the championship title in their respective categories.