The Bahrain Football Association (BFA) has recently expressed dismay at the appalling behavior displayed by Indonesian fans following Bahrain’s recent match against Indonesia in the AFC Asian Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The BFA and Bahraini national team players were subjected to insults, threats, and cyber-attacks after the match, raising concerns for their safety. This behavior is clearly not in line with the values of sportsmanship and unity that football aims to promote across borders.
The BFA revealed that its official website, social media accounts, and correspondence systems were hacked and flooded with offensive comments and threats, with Bahraini players and fans also being targeted. In response to these actions, the BFA has formally contacted FIFA and the AFC to inform them of the threats and request the relocation of the upcoming away match in Jakarta, Indonesia. The safety of the national team is the primary concern, as the association fears for their well-being if the match were to take place in Indonesia.
The BFA has expressed shock at the level of hostility displayed, noting that death threats directed at Bahraini players on social media are unprecedented in football. Despite this, Bahrain welcomed more than 2,000 Indonesian fans for the home leg of the match, providing them with facilities and ensuring a smooth entry into the stadium. The association strongly condemns all forms of online harassment and cyber-attacks and plans to bring this issue to international organizations to highlight the potential dangers faced by its team.
The BFA emphasized the importance of player safety and urged FIFA and the AFC to prioritize this when making decisions regarding the upcoming match. The association hopes that the threats and hostile behavior will be addressed promptly to prevent any harm to players and staff. The BFA believes that such campaigns not only endanger lives but also distort the true spirit of football, which is based on mutual respect and sportsmanship.
In conclusion, the BFA’s response to the unacceptable behavior exhibited by Indonesian fans highlights the association’s commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of its players and staff. The BFA’s efforts to address these threats with FIFA and the AFC demonstrate its dedication to upholding the values of sportsmanship and unity in football. It is crucial that measures are taken to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future and to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all involved in the sport.
