Overview

• The confrontation occurred in the 66th minute of Real Alianza Cataquera’s match against Deportivo Quique after Bolivar was shown a red card while on the sidelines.
• Bolivar approached referee Vanessa Ceballos and struck her across the face, after which she tried to kick him before being restrained.
• Players and staff intervened immediately, with one goalkeeper pushing Bolivar away from the referee.
• Video of the slap spread widely on social media, drawing broad condemnation and calls for punishment.
• Bolivar posted an Instagram apology denying deliberate assault and claiming he attempted to grab the whistle, as authorities are expected to investigate and the players’ union voiced support for Ceballos.