# Bolivian football refereeing controversy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20260924-bolivian-football-refereeing-controversy
> Updated: 2026-09-24T04:02:48.000Z. Sources: 20. Developments: 2.

During a Copa Simón Bolívar match between Independiente Cochabamba and Wilstermann Cooperativas, a controversy erupted when referee Carlos Arteaga awarded a penalty in the 93rd minute of a 2-2 draw. The Bolivian Football Federation (FBF) later described the decision as “inexistent.”

In response, Wilstermann Cooperativas goalkeeper Gustavo Tesonotte refused to attempt a save, standing with his back to the ball. Tesonotte stated, “If they want to help the Independiente Cochabamba team so much, fine, let them win the match,” characterizing the act as a protest against perceived attempts to influence the promotion race. The uncontested penalty was scored by Ernesto Adiri, resulting in a 3-2 victory for Independiente.

Following the incident, the FBF's Arbitral Commission announced the indefinite suspension of referee Carlos Arteaga from all federation tournaments.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-24: Wilstermann goalkeeper protests penalty in Bolivia

Wilstermann Cooperativas goalkeeper Gustavo Tesonotte refused to defend a penalty kick during a Copa Simón Bolívar match in Bolivia to protest a controversial refereeing decision.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/wilstermann-goalkeeper-protests-penalty-in-bolivia

### 2026-09-22: Bolivian goalkeeper refuses to save penalty in protest

Bolivian goalkeeper Gustavo Tesonotte refused to save a penalty in protest against a controversial call, leading to a 3-2 loss for Wilstermann Cooperativas and the indefinite suspension of the referee.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bolivian-football-referee-suspended-after-controversial-penalty

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Cite as: Bolivian football refereeing controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20260924-bolivian-football-refereeing-controversy