Bolivian Referees Suspended After Controversies in Matchday 10

The Bolivian Football Federation’s (FBF) Referees Commission has provisionally suspended the officiating crews involved in the Bolívar vs Always Ready and Aurora vs GV San José matches. The decision, announced on Tuesday by commission president José Jordán, follows widespread criticism of key decisions made during both fixtures.

In Bolívar’s 2–2 draw with Always Ready, referee Gabriel Mendoza came under fire for allowing an equalizing goal by Marcelo Suárez, who appeared to handle the ball before scoring. The VAR did not intervene, sparking protests from Bolívar’s staff and supporters.

Meanwhile in Cochabamba, referee Santiago Silva was accused of awarding dubious penalties against GV San José in their match against Aurora. “We’ll receive and review the footage to determine whether further sanctions are warranted,” Jordán told reporters.

The suspended officiating teams are: Gabriel Mendoza, Emanuel Castañeta, Lucio Criales, and Santiago Silva, Carlos Tapia, Jorge Fernández. Jordán also cited concerns over the referees' mental readiness ahead of the upcoming derby-filled weekend.

While Bolivia’s football regulations do not allow for point deductions due to officiating errors, both Bolívar and GV San José have yet to issue formal statements. However, the FBF has already sanctioned players and coaching staff involved in both contested matches.