Colombian footballer slaps female referee after red card

Updated: 24 Nov, 2025 • 0 • min read

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Colombian footballer slaps female referee after red card

Football in Colombia has been rocked by an appalling incident after female referee Vanessa Ceballos was slapped in the face by Real Alianza player Javier Bolivar during a match last weekend.

The ugly scenes unfolded on Saturday at the Chelo Castro Stadium in Aracataca, where Deportivo Quique faced Alianza.

In the 66th minute, Ceballos issued Bolivar a red card for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Bolivar, who was on the substitutes' bench, reacted furiously as he confronted the experienced FIFA official before raising his hand and slapping her across the mouth.

Ceballos immediately attempted to retaliate but was restrained by members of Alianza's coaching staff and players.

SE SALIÓ DE LA ROPA
La árbitra colombiana Vanessa Ceballos dirigía un partido masculino de la 1C y se acercó al banco técnico a expulsar a Bolívar, el futbolista se paró, la encaró y le pegó una cachetada, "tuvieron que sujetar a la jueza porque quiso devolver la agresión". Vean pic.twitter.com/B3ZCPlOnIa
— Jose Borda (@Borda_analista) September 2, 2025

Bolivar Denies Intentional Aggression

Footage of the incident quickly went viral, sparking outrage across South America and beyond.

Facing widespread condemnation, Bolivar later posted a statement on Instagram.

I recognise that my behaviour was disrespectful and inappropriate, unbecoming of an athlete and a human being.

By foolishly trying to take the whistle out of the referee's mouth, I acted incorrectly, sending a negative message that should never have happened.

I want to make it absolutely clear that at no time was there any physical aggression toward the referee.

However, I understand that my gesture was offensive and portrayed her as contrary to the values of football and respect.

Therefore, I humbly apologise to her, her family, the women, and everyone who was affected by what happened.

Despite his denial of intent, many fans and officials have dismissed his explanation, labelling his actions "disgraceful" and "shameful."

Real Alianza React Swiftly

Alianza then released a firm statement condemning Bolivar's conduct and confirmed he had been expelled from the team.

This totally unacceptable act does not reflect the values that define us as an institution.

The club have made the final decision to retire the player, reaffirming our commitment to respect, discipline, and fair play.

Violence, in any form, has no place in sport or in society.

Ceballos, who made history in 2020 as part of Colombia's first all-female refereeing team in a men's professional match, has yet to speak publicly but is understood to be shaken by the incident.

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