Colombian League Bans ‘Paradinha’ Move, Will Punish Provocations

Colombian football has officially banned the controversial ‘Paradinha’ move following recent incidents involving Francisco Chaverra (DIM) and Néiser Villarreal (Millonarios). The maneuver —standing on the ball without advancing play— has sparked on-field tensions and is now considered unsporting behavior.

Referees have received instructions from the national officiating commission: any player attempting the move will receive a yellow card, and the opposing team will be awarded an indirect free kick. The decision is grounded in Law 12 of the IFAB rules, which penalizes acts deemed unsporting or provocative.

Villarreal received a caution during the Bogotá derby against Santa Fe for performing the move, and the gesture drew criticism from several football figures. Hugo Rodallega said such actions disrespect the game, while others, like Mayer Candelo, defended the youngster’s flair. Still, the league aims to prioritize fair play and reduce flashpoints that could escalate into conflict.

The Colombian league is now the first to enforce a specific disciplinary measure against the ‘Paradinha’, sending a clear message that showboating at the expense of sportsmanship will no longer be tolerated.