Bolivia’s First Women’s Amputee Soccer Camp for 2027

Five Days of Intensive Training in Santa Cruz

Near the bustling streets of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, a group of nearly three dozen women gathered on a soccer field for a five‑day training camp. The participants, representing ten countries—including Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia and Bolivia—include athletes who have lost limbs due to infection or trauma. This marks the first time a South American camp has been organized specifically for women seeking to compete in the 2027 Women’s Amputee Football World Cup. The session wrapped up on Friday with friendly matches, giving the players a chance to put their new skills into action. Organizers noted that the camp’s focus on balance, coordination, crutch movement and amputee‑specific rules gave athletes a solid foundation for the global tournament.

Under Fire: The Unique Rules of Amputee Soccer

The World Amputee Football Federation, which governs the international tournaments, set strict guidelines for the seven‑a‑side format. All prosthetic limbs must be removed before kickoff, and players cannot use their crutches to touch the ball. Elite coaches from the U.S. Women’s National Amputee Soccer Team shared their expertise, helping the newcomers master ball control, tactics and safe movement on crutches. These rules, designed to ensure fairness and safety, differ sharply from traditional football where prosthetics are allowed and players are on two legs. The camp’s emphasis on these specifics prepares the women for the competition they will face at the world stage.

Timing the Camp with the Men’s FIFA World Cup

While the world’s attention is focused on the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, the Bolivian training took place under the same global spotlight. The overlap offered a powerful contrast, showcasing the growth of women’s amputee football just as the men’s tournament draws massive viewership. Organizers highlighted the parallel development of both competitions, noting that men have been playing international amputee soccer since the 1980s, with a World Cup held every four years. The women’s game only debuted in 2024, hosted by Colombia, and the next edition is slated for 2027 in Poland. This timing underscores the momentum building for the female circuit.

Global Growth and War‑Torn Origins

The sport has expanded dramatically in regions scarred by conflict, with notable growth in places like Gaza and Rwanda. These areas have turned to amputee football as a pathway to rehabilitation and community empowerment. The women’s version, though newer, follows the same trajectory of using sport as a tool for healing and inclusion. The 2024 women’s World Cup in Colombia proved that female amputee football can attract strong interest and competitive play. As more nations develop programs, the future looks set for broader participation and higher skill levels on the world stage.

Personal Stories of Strength and Hope

Among the athletes, 21‑year‑old Amie Donathan from the U.S. team highlighted the camp’s impact, stating that the experience “can’t be described” and reflecting her rapid adaptation to life with a single leg. Lidia Mayser, president of the sports council for the Santa Cruz region, emphasized the goal of establishing a Bolivian national federation and assembling a roster for the next tournament. Filomena Luna, a 50‑year‑old mother of six who lost a leg at age 11 after an infection treated by a traditional healer, said the training helped her “improve tremendously” and called soccer “an escape for me.” Their narratives illustrate how the camp is not only about athletic preparation but also about building community and reclaiming agency.

Looking Ahead: Bolivia’s Road to the 2027 World Cup

Camp organizers, local authorities and nonprofit partners are now working to turn these five days into a lasting program. The aim is to create a national federation that can field a competitive Bolivian team at the 2027 Women’s Amputee Football World Cup in Poland. If successful, Bolivia would join a growing list of nations investing in women’s amputee soccer, mirroring the sport’s evolution since its men’s counterpart began in the 1980s. Continued support and funding will be crucial to sustain training facilities, coach development and athlete recruitment. The next few years will determine whether the momentum from this inaugural South American camp translates into a permanent presence on the global stage.