FIFA Says No More High Soccer Matches

FIFA, Soccer’s governing body, has imposed a ban on soccer matches at an altitude of 2,500+ meters (8,200 ft), deeming it ‘inhumane’ for the players. As you can imagine, soccer-passionate Latin Americans are in outrage. Many of the Andean countries, whose inhabitants view soccer as a culturally-binding event, including Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador will be affected by this ban.  Peru, for one, had hoped to stage the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in Cusco, which is perched at a lofty 3,400 meters above sea level.

Incidentally, the Latin American ‘heavyweights’, Brazil and Argentina, will not be affected by this ban. In fact, they are accused of being instigators to the ban after complaining of unfair advantages for players who are not accustomed to these conditions.

Some may ask, is the combination of smog and altitude in Mexico City (2,240 meters) not a greater threat to player’s health? Or the extreme heat and humidity that is experienced in Brazil?

Many feel that the decision is a rash one and that it is likely to be reviewed up on appeal. Bolivian President Evo Morales has vowed to send a delegation to FIFA headquarters in Switzerland to protest the ruling. Until then, it will be business as usual at the Bombonera and Maracanã.

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[Jen]

An update from the LA Times: As of late last month, international matches can be played in stadiums up to 9,800 feet. A special exception allows matches in soccer-crazed La Paz, Bolivia, which at 12,000 feet will likely leave many top-notch athletes gasping for breath.