Persib Bandung captain Marc Klok has denied racism accusations from Bhayangkara FC following their April 30, 2026 match. He described the incident with Henry Doumbia as a field misunderstanding. Persib and teammate Layvin Kurzawa have offered full support.
The incident occurred during the 30th week match of the Super League 2025/2026 at Stadion PKOR Sumpah Pemuda in Bandar Lampung on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Bhayangkara FC claimed striker Henry Doumbia received a racially tinged remark from Klok in the first half. Doumbia reported it to captain Wahyu Subo Seto before halftime, sparking tension in the player tunnel that went viral on social media. The match ended 2-4 in Persib's favor.
Klok denied the accusation on his personal Instagram. "I clearly said to him, ‘Give me the ball back.’ We then discussed it, and he apologized to me because he initially thought I said the word ‘black’," he stated. He said the misunderstanding was clarified on the field by Doumbia and teammates, but Bhayangkara manager Sumardji continued accusing him of racism. "I feel hurt by this untrue accusation," Klok added.
Persib player Layvin Kurzawa defended Klok on Instagram Story. "I oppose all forms of racism. I fully support my captain. I know who he is and what he stands for," he said. Bhayangkara FC has reported Klok to the match commissioner and PSSI Disciplinary Committee.
Persib Bandung issued full support in an official statement. "Persib does not tolerate any form of racism under any circumstances. Persib states full support for our team captain, Marc Klok," the club wrote. They urged an objective and transparent process by the relevant authorities.
