Colombian footballer Javier Bolivar has come under heavy criticism after slapping referee Vanessa Ceballos during a league match between Real Alianza Cataquera and Deportivo Quique.
The ugly scene happened in the 66th minute when Ceballos showed Bolivar a red card while he was off the pitch. Before she could fully raise the card, Bolivar walked up to her and struck her across the face with his right hand.
Ceballos reacted angrily and tried to kick him before being held back by other players. One goalkeeper stepped in to push Bolivar away as chaos erupted on the field.
Footage of the assault quickly went viral on social media, drawing outrage from fans and sparking calls for severe punishment.
Faced with the backlash, Bolivar issued a public apology on Instagram, calling his behaviour “disrespectful and inappropriate.”
He, however, denied that he meant to hit the referee. “I want to make it absolutely clear that at no time was there any physical aggression toward the referee,” Bolivar wrote. “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.”
Bolivar further added, “I firmly reject any form of violence, especially against women. Women deserve all our respect, care, and admiration. My commitment is to work on my personal and athletic growth so as to never again repeat an act that violates anyone’s dignity.”
The Colombian football federation is expected to announce disciplinary measures soon, with Bolivar facing the risk of a long suspension from the game.
