Mikael Tata Becomes Target of Racism, Persebaya Surabaya Reports to APPI and I League

Persebaya Surabaya’s management has taken a firm stand to protect its player Mikael Tata, who has become a victim of racist abuse on social media. The case emerged following a 2-2 draw in the classic match between Bajul Ijo and Persib Bandung at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium (GBT) on Monday, 2 March 2026. This legal and administrative move has been taken by Persebaya Surabaya as a form of resistance against bullying targeting the player’s physical identity and background. The management says the actions of the supporters involved have undermined the values of sportsmanship in Indonesia’s top-flight football competition. The incident affecting Mikael Tata is believed to be the fallout from tensions on the field in Week 24 of the 2025-2026 Super League. Tata, who was at the scene, also reacted in defence of his team, leading to a verbal clash and shoving. Although referee Eko Saputra managed to calm the situation on the pitch, the abuse continued online. The player’s personal Instagram account, aged 21, was flooded with racist comments and insults that were irresponsible. In response to the racist abuse suffered by their player, the club issued an official statement. They stressed that differences in skin colour or origin should not be a reason to demean someone’s dignity in football. “It is a place for mutual recognition and meeting among players, officials, coaches, and fellow football enthusiasts.” “A space where differences in background, colour, or identity should never be a reason for degradation,” he said. To deter future acts, the management immediately filed reports with the Indonesian Professional Footballers Association (APPI) and I League, the competition operator.