A passion for Persib Bandung.

Words: Niek Jansen

Images: Niek Jansen

Persib Bandung – Persik Kediri. Indonesia.

Some clubs make an immediate impression. Persib Bandung is one of them. On March 9, 2026, I was at the Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium for the match against Persik Kediri (3-0).

Persib is one of the biggest clubs in Indonesia and is based in Bandung, a city of millions in West Java. Founded in 1933, it remains hugely popular to this day.

Around the stadium, you immediately notice how big the club is. A sea of blue and supporters fully focused on their team.

For Dutch football fans, there is also a clear connection. With players like Thom Haye, Eliano Reijnders, Dion Markx and Marc Klok, Persib has several Dutch-Indonesian players in the squad. It makes it just a bit more interesting to follow as a visitor.

Persib are also top of the league this season and living up to that status. Since the formation of the Super League in 1994, the club has won the title four times, making them joint record holders alongside Persipura Jayapura.

On the way to the stadium.

Around the stadium, there was a relaxed but unmistakable matchday atmosphere. What stood out most: as a foreigner, you immediately get noticed.

But in a positive way. People smile, start conversations and tell you they appreciate you being there. You can feel the pride they have in their club and their city.

When I bought a Persib shirt and scarf myself, that only strengthened the connection.

It was genuinely appreciated. High fives, photos, short conversations. You quickly feel part of it.

In the stands.

The stadium was well filled and largely coloured blue.

The atmosphere was constant. Plenty of singing and energy, but never aggressive.

Passionate, but friendly. That probably describes it best.

On the pitch.

Persib showed their quality on the pitch as well. More tempo, more quality and simply more effective.

The 3-0 win over Persik Kediri was fully deserved and never really in doubt.

A league leader showing exactly why they are on top.

More than a match.

What made this evening special wasn’t just the game itself.

It’s the way you are received. In Europe, as a foreigner, you are usually just one of many. Here, you stand out— and because of that, people connect with you.

Combined with a big club like Persib and a full stadium, it becomes an experience that goes beyond football.