PSSI Changes Flight Routes for Indonesia's National Team Stars from Europe for Security

The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), the country’s national football federation, has taken preventive measures to safeguard the security and comfort of national team players competing in European leagues.

The flight routes for dozens of diaspora players scheduled to return to Indonesia have been altered, with Singapore now serving as the primary transit point to avoid the Middle East region. This strategic decision concerning the national team squad was made following an escalation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly arising from the conflict between the United States and Israel with Iran.

These unfavourable conditions directly impact the travel plans of players preparing for the FIFA Series 2026 matches scheduled for late March at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) in Jakarta.

Previously, players based abroad typically transited through Dubai or Doha; these routes have now been completely redirected. Sumardji, head of the National Team Board (BTN), confirmed that this change represents the best option given Singapore’s proximity to Indonesia.

“Yes, so the departure of these players from Europe at this time coincides with the escalating situation in the Middle East,” Sumardji told media including BolaSport.com in Jakarta on Friday, 13 March 2026.

The federation has arranged all necessary logistics and transportation to ensure smooth arrival schedules for the players. Supporters have been reassured that all preparations are proceeding smoothly without significant obstacles.

“All the players will depart according to the established schedule, and everything will be routed through Singapore,” Sumardji stated.

This new flight scheme applies not only to their arrival but will also be strictly implemented when players return to their respective European clubs following their national team duties. “So, whether from the Netherlands or elsewhere, flights will transit through Singapore before proceeding to Jakarta,” he added.