World Cup Fever Warms Jakarta's Car Free Day

Jakarta's typically quiet Car Free Day on Sunday, July 12, 2026, buzzed with an unusual energy as thousands of residents gathered at the Sarinah Anjungan. Instead of just the usual joggers and cyclists, the area was dominated by fans eager to watch the World Cup 2026 quarter-final match between Argentina and Switzerland on a giant screen.

The event, dubbed "Bola Gembira" (Joyful Ball) by TVRI, the official broadcaster, transformed the public space into a vibrant hub of football celebration. Supporters, many clad in their team's colors, created a lively atmosphere with chants and cheers. The shared excitement was palpable, with collective gasps at near misses and roars for every goal attempt, uniting people from diverse backgrounds.

Families, sports enthusiasts, workers, and even tourists paused their routines to join the communal viewing. Many attendees expressed that watching the match with hundreds of others offered a unique, stadium-like experience, amplifying the thrill of the game. The initiative successfully brought the World Cup's excitement directly to the heart of the city, fostering a sense of shared passion and community.

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For some residents, the experience of watching the match with hundreds of people offered a different sensation than watching at home. It felt like being in the stadium. Even though we were only watching a screen, the atmosphere was alive because everyone was cheering together.