The swearing-in ceremony was presided over by Indonesian Minister of Law and Human Rights, Supratman Andi Agtas, and took place in London, UK, on February 8. London was chosen as the venue because Ole Romeny is currently playing for his club, Oxford United.
{: .alignnone size-full wp-image-1739092639092} Ole Romeny officially became an Indonesian citizen during the swearing-in ceremony on February 8 (Photo: Bola).
Romeny previously played for the Netherlands’ U15 and U18 teams. However, last November, he decided to commit to the Indonesian national team.
Although born in the Netherlands, Romeny’s Indonesian heritage through his grandmother facilitated a smooth and swift naturalization process. The 2000-born forward obtained Indonesian citizenship after just over three months.
Romeny’s inclusion is expected to address the shortcomings in Indonesia’s attacking line. The 24-year-old striker is set to make his debut when the team, led by Coach Patrick Kluivert, faces Australia on March 20 and Bahrain on March 25 in the third round of World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
{: .alignnone size-full wp-image-1739092678833} Ole Romeny will strengthen Indonesia’s attack in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers (Photo: Getty).
“We hope that with Ole Romeny joining the national team, the Garuda’s offensive strength will be even sharper. This could positively impact the Indonesian team,” said Indonesian Football Association Chairman Erick Thohir.
Romeny has the opportunity to play alongside Marselino Ferdinandan and Rafael Struick as a striker when Indonesia plays against Australia, especially since Ragnar Oratmangoen is certain to miss the match following his red card in the game against Saudi Arabia.
Indonesia currently ranks third in Group C of the third round of World Cup 2026 Asian qualifiers after six matches, trailing Japan and Australia.
However, the two upcoming third-round World Cup 2026 qualifiers in March could significantly alter the standings, with three teams tied at six points, including Indonesia, while Australia, in second place, only leads by one point over the other teams.
{: .alignnone size-full wp-image-1739092639078} Current standings in Group C of the third round of World Cup 2026 Asian qualifiers (Image: Wiki).
