Profile of Alta Ballah, Dewa United Player Victim of Persib Fans' Racism

Kapanlagi.com - Alta Ballah has once again captured public attention, but this time not just for his talent on the field, but also due to a racism incident that befell him after the match between Dewa United and Persib Bandung at the Gelora Bandung Lautan Api (GBLA) Stadium. This young defender experienced a painful ordeal, while also revealing the bitter reality regarding the issue of discrimination that still haunts the world of football in Indonesia.

The racism incident occurred on Friday, January 17, 2025, when Alta was brought on as a substitute for Reva Adi Utama in the second half. Although Dewa United managed to win with a score of 2-0, the atmosphere of the match was tarnished by the disgraceful actions of a few rogue supporters. Alta became the target of racially charged insults that sparked a strong reaction from various circles.

The president of Dewa United, Ardian Satya Negara, expressed his disappointment over the racist behavior directed at Alta. "We deeply regret the racist actions carried out by rogue supporters against our player, Alta Ballah," Ardian stated, as reported by ANTARA.

To get to know Alta Ballah better and learn about his career journey, stay tuned for more information on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

1. The Early Journey of Alta Ballah

Alta Ballah, the son of football legend Anthony Jomah Ballah, was born on December 30, 2000, in Tangerang, Banten, and since the age of six, he has shown extraordinary talent on the green field, inspired by his father.

His career began at a Football School (SSB), and at the age of 15, he successfully broke into the Barito Putera U-17 team, paving the way to the professional world. The year 2019 became a turning point when Alta joined Persib U-20, captivating the attention of national football fans.

A year later, he continued his career journey at Persita Tangerang, where as a left-back, he showed solid and consistent performance. The 2021-2022 season became a significant moment as he recorded 20 appearances in Liga 1, and now, Alta continues his adventure at Dewa United, the club that has become his new home.

2. Move to Dewa United and Rejection of Spanish Offers

After leaving Persebaya Surabaya, Alta Ballah took a bold step by joining Dewa United, despite being pursued by major clubs like PSM Makassar and Madura United. The official announcement of his transfer through Dewa United's social media marks a new beginning in his football career.

Previously, Alta also received tempting offers from the Spanish club, CD Llosentese, which was impressed by his performance in several trial sessions.

However, wisely, Alta chose to continue fighting in his homeland for a brighter career future. This decision demonstrates his dedication to developing himself and contributing to the advancement of Indonesian football, even though it was not an easy choice.

3. Racism Incident at GBLA

The match between Dewa United and Persib Bandung on January 17, 2025, took place with high tension, where Dewa United managed to secure a 2-0 victory. However, that precious moment was tainted by a racism incident that befell Alta Ballah.

In the second half, Alta became the target of racial slurs from a number of home supporters, an act that immediately drew condemnation from various circles.

Alta's sincere gesture of apologizing to the supporters shows his greatness of heart, even though he was clearly a victim of a situation that should not have occurred. This incident serves as a bitter reminder that Indonesian football still needs to improve to create a more inclusive and sportsmanlike atmosphere.

4. Response from Persib Bandung

The management of Persib Bandung, through Sporting Director Adhitia Putra Herawan, expressed deep regret over the incident that occurred, hoping that similar events will not happen in the future.

He invites all Bobotoh to be exemplary supporters, supporting the team with enthusiasm while upholding the values of sportsmanship.

Adhitia emphasized the management's commitment to preventing similar incidents through collaboration with various parties.

"We want to create a positive and brotherly football atmosphere. We believe Bobotoh are polite and respectful individuals, and in the future, let’s prove that we can be better," asserted Adhitia Putra Herawan, as quoted from bola.com.

5. Steps to Prevent Racism in Football

The incident involving Alta Ballah serves as an important lesson about the significance of a collective movement to eliminate racism from the world of football. Ardian Satya Negara, President of Dewa United, emphasized that all elements, from clubs, federations, to supporters, must unite to create an inclusive atmosphere.

"We have coordinated with APPI to address this issue, and hopefully this will be the last time. Let’s make football a tool for uniting the nation," he stated in an official statement quoted from ANTARA.

Dewa United has also taken concrete steps by involving APPI in the investigation of the incident, while hoping that education and anti-discrimination campaigns will become an integral part of long-term efforts to build a better football culture in the homeland.

6. What happened to Alta Ballah at GBLA?

In a match that was supposed to be a moment full of spirit, Alta Ballah faced a bitter reality when a handful of supporters exhibited inappropriate racist behavior on January 17, 2025, during his team's match against Persib Bandung.

7. What is Dewa United's response to this incident?

Dewa United management firmly condemns the acts of racism that have occurred and has established a close collaboration with APPI to address this serious issue.

8. What is Persib Bandung's response?

Persib management expressed deep regret over the incident and is determined to foster an inclusive football atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the matches without discrimination.

9. Who is Alta Ballah?

Alta Ballah, a field star with Liberian and Indonesian blood, is now shining as a left wing-back at Dewa United.

(kpl/srr)