FIFA Confirms Argentina to Host 2023 U20 WC
The Bureau of the FIFA Council has announced Argentina as the host nation for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2023™. The tournament, which will take place from May 20 to June 11, was originally meant to be hosted by Indonesia. But after FIFA stripped them of the hosting rights in March, Argentina stepped in with a bid.
The reason behind the move was due to protests in Indonesia against hosting the Israeli team, which forced FIFA’s hand. Although FIFA never specified the reason, it is known that Indonesia does not have formal diplomatic relations with Israel.
A FIFA delegation visited Argentina last week to inspect the proposed tournament venues and infrastructure. They were impressed with what they saw, and after the AFA signed the hosting agreement and other relevant documents, FIFA confirmed Argentina as the new host nation.
Statements on the Confirmation
“FIFA is delighted to have Argentina as the host nation for the U-20 World Cup. We would like to thank the AFA, its President Claudio Tapia, as well as the governmental authorities, for their commitment to hosting this magnificent event at such short notice,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
In addition to a statement from the president, the country’s economy minister Sergio Massa confirmed that they signed all the necessary international deals demanded by FIFA.
Argentina’s Bidding Story
FIFA’s announcement on Monday came just hours after the Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed they had the financial backing to host the tournament.
Despite the country’s economic struggles, the Argentine government is backing AFA’s bid to host the tournament. Economy Minister Sergio Massa assured the public that they had signed “all the international deals that FIFA demanded from our government.” The official host stadiums have not been announced, but the initial submission proposed seven locations across the country.
What to Expect from the Competition
The FIFA U-20 World Cup will feature six groups of four teams, with Argentina competing as the host nation. Argentina is no stranger to this tournament, having won it six times, most recently in 2007. They also hosted the competition in 2001, so they have experience in delivering a successful tournament.
Currently, fans are awaiting the official draw of the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2023™, which will take place on Friday at the Home of FIFA in Zurich. New Zealand and Fiji will represent Oceania in the tournament, and it will be interesting to see which other countries will be competing.
Other News for the U20 World Cup
Aside from the announcement of the new host, AFA confirmed that Leandro Stillitano, a former Independiente coach, would join as an assistant to Javier Mascherano’s coaching staff for the U-20 World Cup.
The team is also looking to reinforce its ranks, with Manchester United’s young forward Alejandro Garnacho the main target to strengthen the squad. Other players at top European sides are also set to be called up, including Luka Romero (Lazio), Matías Soulé (Juventus), and Facundo Buonanotte (Brighton).
The FIFA U-20 World Cup is a platform for young footballers to showcase their talents; and it is also a great opportunity for host nations to showcase their culture and hospitality. Argentina is sure to put on a great tournament, and football fans can’t wait to see what’s in store.
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