Bolivia’s Liga Profesional is one of the most exciting and competitive football leagues in South America. From its passionate fan base to its skilled players, there are many reasons why the league has gained so much attention. Here are the top 10 fascinating facts about Bolivia’s Liga Profesional that you might not know.
- The Liga Profesional was founded in 1977 as the Liga de Fútbol Profesional Boliviano. It is currently the top football league in Bolivia.
- The league is made up of 16 teams, which compete in a round-robin tournament. The team with the most points at the end of the season is crowned champion.
- Bolívar, a team based in La Paz, has won the most titles in the Liga Profesional, with 29 championships to their name.
- The league has a unique format where it is divided into two halves – the Apertura and Clausura. The winners of each half then play each other in a championship playoff.
- The league has produced some world-class players, including Marco Etcheverry, who played for DC United in the MLS, and Julio César Baldivieso, who played for the Bolivian national team.
- Bolivia’s high altitude affects the way football is played in the country. La Paz, where many of the Liga Profesional teams are based, is located at over 3,600 meters above sea level. This makes it difficult for visiting teams to play at their usual pace and stamina, giving the home team an advantage.
- The league has a fierce rivalry between its two biggest teams, Bolívar and The Strongest. The rivalry is known as the “Clásico Paceño” and is one of the most intense in South America.
- The league has a unique rule that requires each team to have at least one under-20 player in their starting lineup. This is intended to promote youth development in the country.
- The Liga Profesional has been affected by political and social unrest in the country. In 2019, the league was suspended for several weeks due to protests over the disputed presidential election.
- The Liga Profesional is gaining more international recognition, with some matches being broadcast in other countries. The league is also becoming more competitive, with teams investing in their facilities and training programs to attract top talent.
