Sumardji: FIFA Bans Indonesian Official 20 Matches for Attacking Referee

A high-ranking Indonesian football official has received a significant ban from FIFA following an incident after a World Cup qualifying match. Sumardji, Chairman of the National Team Body (BTN), was sanctioned by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee for what was deemed an attack on a match official.

The Incident and FIFA’s Response

The incident occurred after the match between the Indonesian National Team and Iraq on October 11, 2025, during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Indonesia lost the match 0-1, effectively ending their hopes of reaching the tournament. FIFA determined that Sumardji committed a serious offense by attacking the Chinese referee, Ma Ning.

According to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s report, Sumardji aggressively confronted Ma Ning from behind, causing the referee to fall while preparing to issue a red card to Shayne Pattynama. Ma Ning immediately responded by issuing a red card to Sumardji, who was serving as the Indonesian National Team Manager at the time.

Did You Know? The incident occurred during a crucial 2026 World Cup Qualification match between Indonesia and Iraq, resulting in a 0-1 defeat for Indonesia.

The report details that Sumardji “attacked the referee, by rushing at him from behind and pushing him aggressively and violently to the ground.” Players intervened to separate Sumardji from the referee, but he reportedly “continued his attack against the referee” before being restrained.

Notably, FIFA’s report states that Sumardji did not dispute the accusations and presented no evidence to refute them. He acknowledged attacking the referee.

Violation of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code

FIFA’s sanction stems from a violation of Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which addresses assaults on match officials. This article carries a minimum penalty of a 15-match ban. FIFA ultimately imposed a more severe punishment.

“The Defendant is sanctioned with a suspension of twenty (20) matches,” the FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s decision stated.

Expert Insight: This severe penalty underscores FIFA’s commitment to protecting match officials and maintaining the integrity of the game. Such actions are viewed as a direct threat to fair play and are subject to strong disciplinary measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific action did Sumardji take?

Sumardji physically attacked the referee, Ma Ning, by rushing at him from behind and pushing him to the ground. He continued the attack until other players intervened.

Did Sumardji defend his actions to FIFA?

No, the FIFA report states that Sumardji did not dispute the accusations and did not present any evidence to counter the claims against him.

What is the length of Sumardji’s ban?

Sumardji has been banned from accompanying the Indonesian National Team for 20 matches.

What impact will this ban have on the Indonesian national team’s leadership and future matches?