JAYAPURA (7 June 2015) – Former Indonesian champions Persipura Jayapura have decided to disband the team following the recent FIFA sanction on the FA of Indonesia (PSSI).
Persipura President Benhur Tommy Mano said that the team will only be re-established when the Indonesian government decide to un-freeze the activities of the PSSI, which would in turn see FIFA taking back the suspension order on the national body.
“As of this moment, Persipura are no more,” said Tommy, who was flanked by team manager Rudi Maswi and general secretary Roky Babena.
“We follow the rules and regulations of PSSI. This de-establishment of Persipura will continue as long as the Indonesian government put a freeze on PSSI. As for the other issues with salaries, and other things, we will have a talk with our sponsors,” added Tomy.
Tommy (left) with Persipura team manager Rudi Maswi
Tommy pointed out that in this instance where Persipura had to put a halt to all their activities, the shoulder of responsibility should be put solely on the Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports, Imam Nahrawi and also the Board of Indonesian Professional Athletes (BOPI).
Imam and BOPI also have to be held responsible for Persipura’s exit from the Round of 16 of the AFC Cup 2015, following the breakdown in communication which resulted in three foreign players from Pahang FA being barred from entering Indonesia.
“The Ministry and BOPI must be held accountable for all these problems,” added Tommy.
“Persipura will also not play in any tournament organized by anyone outside PSSI. Today, it is official that Persipura are no more.”
