Bolivia on Sunday protested the world soccer ruling body's refusal to allow international games higher than 2,750 meters above sea level, according to reports reaching here on Sunday.
The measure directly affects the cities of La Paz, Oruro and Potosi, where local teams are set to play in the Copa Libertadores, South America's top competition for soccer clubs.
"I wish to express my great surprise over this resolution. It is discriminatory and marginalizes," Bolivian President Evo Morales said.
Morales had led a similar protest to the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), some three months ago.
"We are appealing to the conscience of many nations to add incentives to this activity. We do not believe that any law, resolution or constitution is untouchable or irreversible," he added.
Jose Ordonez, president of Oruro soccer club San Jose, said he was indignant about the measure, describing it as "another harsh blow for the nation". San Jose qualified for the 2008 Libertadores by winning the local league.
Real Potosi, which is also in the Libertadores, described the decision as an aberration.
Source: Xinhua
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