Bolivia star suspended for criticizing Copa America

$20 thousand suspension and match penalty for the Bolivian Martens

From the source

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has banned Bolivia star and striker Marcelo Martens for one match and fined him $20,000 after criticizing the federation for insisting on organizing the Copa America in the midst of the Corona pandemic.

Martens was among three players in Bolivia who contracted "Covid-19" on the eve of their opening match 3-1 loss to Paraguay.

He missed that match and criticized CONMEBOL on social media for its last-minute decision to grant Brazil the right to host, even though it is one of the countries most affected by the virus.

Martens wrote on "Instagram" before deleting the message: "We extend our heartfelt thanks to CONMEBOL. All the blame lies with you. You alone are responsible for anyone's death. Your goal is only to make money. Isn't a player's life worth anything to you?"

Martins apologized for the comments, but was punished by CONMEBOL, so he missed the Bolivia match against Chile.

Follow our latest local and sports news and the latest political and economic developments via Google news