The Delegitimization of Indonesian Football Achievements: A Critical Discourse Analysis Using Teun A. van Dijk’s Model of the “Fixed Champion” Narrative Surrounding Persib Bandung

Abstract

This research is motivated by the rise of the "fake champion" narrative about Persib Bandung on Instagram, which delegitimizes Indonesian football achievements. This research aims to describe the discourse structure, identify social cognition, and explain the social context behind the emergence of this narrative. The method used is descriptive qualitative with data sources in the form of netizens' comments on Instagram posts about football news. Data were collected through a listening method with the technique of free listening and conversation (SBLC) and note-taking, then analyzed using Teun A. van Dijk's Critical Discourse Analysis model which includes the dimensions of text structure, social cognition, and social context. The results show that the text structure is dominated by the theme of delegitimizing Persib Bandung's achievements through the alleged intervention of Erick Thohir and the unfairness of the competition system. The superstructure shows two main patterns, namely the mention of Erick Thohir followed by the alleged intervention and protests against the league system that culminate in the delegitimization of the championship. At the micro level, the discourse is constructed through diction with negative connotations, declarative sentences, sarcastic labeling, and rhetorical elements. Social cognition is influenced by perceptions of PSSI's bias, Erick Thohir's past relationship with Persib, and the ideology of fan rivalry. Meanwhile, social context is influenced by inter-supporter rivalry, social media culture, and low trust in the integrity of the competition. This research concludes that the "fixed champion" narrative is a delegitimization practice formed through the interplay of language structure, social cognition, and social context.