Persija Jakarta coach responds to fan boycott of JIS stadium match

Persija Jakarta's head coach, Shin Tae-yong (STY), has responded to the Jakmania fan group's decision to boycott the international friendly match against Brisbane Roar, scheduled to be held at Jakarta International Stadium (JIS). The boycott was initiated after disagreements between the club's management and supporters over the ticket prices for the match.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference at JIS, STY stated that he had only just learned about the boycott and was not fully aware of the specifics. He acknowledged the consistent support from Jakmania, noting their desire for the team's development. "I always think that a football club can survive forever because it has supporters, so I hope the relationship with the supporters can be built well," the South Korean coach remarked.

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I only just heard about that for the first time, so I don't know for sure. Jakmania fans always come and support us because they want this Jakarta team to develop well.

STY expressed his hope that Persija's management and the Jakmania would quickly reach a mutually beneficial solution. He stressed the inseparable bond between a club and its supporters, viewing fan support as a foundational element for any football club's journey and long-term survival.

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I always think that a football club can survive forever because it has supporters, so I hope the relationship with the supporters can be built well.

Team captain Rizky Ridho echoed STY's sentiments, stating that while he could not comment extensively on the matter as it was outside his purview, he hoped for a resolution. Ridho emphasized the team's need for Jakmania's support, both now and in future seasons. "I hope the situation improves for everyone between the supporters and the team because, after all, we need supporters," Ridho said.

In response to the boycott, Persija Jakarta announced via its official Instagram account that the tickets originally allocated to Jakmania for the Brisbane Roar friendly would be released for general sale. The available tickets are priced at Rp150,000 for category 2 Tier 1 and Rp130,000 for category 2 Tier 2. Persija hopes this reallocation will provide broader access for the public and fans wishing to attend the match at JIS.

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I hope the situation improves for everyone between the supporters and the team because, after all, we need supporters. And I hope everything improves and they return to support Persija in the coming seasons, next season because we really need them.