Persija to host Persib in Jakarta for first time in seven years: Indonesian El Clasico returns to Gelora Bung Karno

Seven years is a long time for Persija Jakarta supporters. The Indonesian El Clasico between Persija Jakarta and Persib Bandung has finally found its official venue: the main Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta, on Saturday 12/9/2026. This will be the first time since 2026 that Persija have hosted Persib in the capital, ending a long period when the orange-clad team had to play at neutral venues whenever they were scheduled as the home side. Since 2026, Persija could not organize a home match against Persib in Jakarta because of licensing and security issues. Fans of the club nicknamed Macan Kemayoran had to watch their team compete at various venues, even outside Jakarta, every time they met their eternal rivals. However, things have changed in the 2026/2027 season as the official security permit from the police has finally been issued. Earlier, the fate of this match was still uncertain. As of Tuesday 8/9, the security permit had not been issued, leaving the organizing committee unable to confirm the venue. Just a few days later, the permit was granted, allowing Persija to return to their home ground in Jakarta. The decision was immediately welcomed with excitement by the capital club and erased the concerns of thousands of supporters. For The Jakmania, the most loyal supporter group of Persija, this match holds special meaning. They have waited seven years to watch their team host Persib at the national stadium. The appeal of the match is expected to be enormous. The organizing committee has prepared around 60,000 tickets for this fixture, and that number is likely to be sold out because this is always one of the most attended matches in Indonesian football. In addition, Persija has reminded supporters to wear the club jersey when arriving at the stadium as a form of identity. Given the tense nature of the Indonesian El Clasico, security is the top priority. Persija hopes all fans will maintain order, follow instructions from the committee and security forces, and ensure the match takes place safely without any unfortunate incidents. On the sporting side, Persija enter the match in positive mood after a 1-0 victory over Borneo FC in the opening round of the 2026/2027 Super League. Persib Bandung are also in good form after beating PSM Makassar 3-1. Both teams have three points and both aim for a second consecutive win. Therefore, the match at SUGBK is not only a battle for pride between two fierce rivals, but also a chance for the winner to take an important early advantage in the league table. The return of the Indonesian El Clasico to Jakarta after seven years is a positive signal for Indonesian football. It shows that coordination between the organizing committee, clubs and authorities has improved, allowing top matches to take place in the right atmosphere. The match between Persija and Persib has never been just 90 minutes on the pitch; it is also a story of passion, loyalty and the history of football in this country. Now, all attention will turn to Jakarta on Saturday 12/9 to see who will have the last laugh in the match dubbed the Indonesian El Clasico.