FIFPRO expresses its deep concern over the ongoing conflict affecting Bolivian football and our full member, the Federation of Professional Footballers of Bolivia (FABOL).
The events of this week, with the Bolivian Football Federation (FBF) recognising ASBOFA, have further exacerbated a crisis that has been repeatedly denounced since 2019, exposing systemic issues that threaten the stability of football in the country and the fundamental rights of the players.
We express our full support for FABOL in its role of representing and defending players in accordance with FIFPRO’s statutes.
Our organisation will never oppose the creation of associations that genuinely defend workers' rights. However, ASBOFA, in particular, lacks legal recognition and has no affiliated footballers.
Consequently, we express our concern that its recognition by the FBF constitutes an act of anti-unionism and a disregard for institutions that are legitimately recognised at both the national and international levels.
FIFPRO is closely monitoring the evolution of these events and has already initiated discussions with the highest football authorities in South America and worldwide, as the FBF has failed to uphold the commitments agreed upon with our president during the meeting held on September 17, 2024, at CONMEBOL headquarters.
The purpose of that meeting was to find urgent and structural solutions to ensure respect for players' rights and the integrity of the competition—commitments that, ultimately, have not been fulfilled.
