Colombian Player Slaps Female Referee After Red Card In Lower-Division Match

A Colombian lower-division league match descended into chaos on Wednesday after Real Alianza Cataquera midfielder Javier Bolívar slapped female referee Vanessa Ceballos moments after being shown a red card.

Footage shared by Mexican newspaper La Jornada shows Ceballos brandishing the red card before Bolívar suddenly struck her across the face. The shocking act sparked uproar among players and fans, with Ceballos visibly furious and attempting to retaliate before fellow officials and players restrained her. A goalkeeper was seen shoving Bolívar away as officials quickly shielded the referee.

The viral clip drew widespread condemnation, with calls for Bolívar to face immediate suspension.

In response, Bolívar posted an apology on Instagram, admitting his behaviour was “disrespectful and inappropriate” but insisting he had no intention of assaulting the referee. “I want to make it clear that at no time was there any physical aggression toward the referee,” he claimed, saying he only tried to grab the whistle from her mouth. “However, I understand that my gesture was offensive and portrayed her as contrary to the values of football and respect. Therefore, I humbly apologize to her, her family, the women, and everyone who was affected by what happened.”

He added that he “firmly rejects any form of violence, especially against women,” vowing to work on his personal and athletic growth to avoid repeating such an incident.

Assaults on referees remain a persistent issue in world football. In 2021, Brazilian amateur player Willian Ribeiro punched a referee during a match, leaving him temporarily unconscious. Similar incidents have been recorded in Argentina, Mexico, Nigeria, and across Europe, prompting renewed calls for tougher sanctions and stronger security for match officials.

FIFA has repeatedly stressed that violence against referees undermines the integrity of the game. In Colombia, where more women are breaking barriers as referees in men’s football, the latest incident has reignited debate over respect, discipline, and referee safety.