John Baggio Vows Pride in Skin Color After Racist Abuse

Phlan Kanchan FC striker John Baggio posted a message after being racially abused by opposing fans, affirming pride in his skin color and stating he will never change.

The incident occurred in a Thai League 2 match where Phlan Kanchan FC drew 2-2 away to Pattaya United. However, after the game chaos erupted as head coach Park Hang-seo was heading to the dressing room. A fan, believed to be a Pattaya supporter, hurled abusive insults at Park, including "kimchi" — a reference to the Korean staple from Park's homeland — and at John Baggio, calling him "Tia," a derogatory term. The Korean coach confronted the fan, requiring stadium officials considerable time to defuse the situation.

Later, John Baggio posted on Instagram Stories, stating he only wants to play football, reiterating pride in his skin color and that he will never change. The 34-year-old wrote: "I am proud to play in the Thai football league because I love Thailand. I have played in Thai League 1 for 10 years. At every stadium in Thailand, whether home or away, Thai fans have always respected and treated me well, and I respect Thais in return.

But today, a foreign man used foul language against me and called me a 'monkey' to my face at a football stadium in Pattaya.

I just want to play football, dedicate myself to fighting for my team, and respect all fans.

I am proud of my skin color and I will never change it."