Querétaro's Brazilian midfielder Paulo Víctor was at the center of controversy after striking referee Katia Itzel García in the face with the ball during the closing moments of a match against Tigres. The incident occurred in stoppage time of the Matchday 11 clash of the Apertura 2026, which Gallos Blancos won 3-2 at Estadio Corregidora, as reported by Vox Populi Noticias on Sunday, August 30.
What exactly happened with the ball strike?
The episode unfolded after a foul by Enzo Giménez on César Araujo near midfield. Although the infraction had already been called, Paulo Víctor, standing just a few meters away, kicked the ball with force. It struck referee Katia Itzel García directly in the face from a distance of about two meters. The official deemed the action accidental, and the player, who was already on a yellow card, offered a brief apology. He did not receive a second booking and was allowed to remain on the pitch.
The reaction on social media and from pundits was swift and critical. Many fans and former referees found it inexplicable that a straight red card was not shown, arguing that Paulo Víctor had clear visibility of the referee's position. This victory moved Querétaro up to seventh place in the league standings, amassing 16 points after 11 matches. The team has displayed a solid attack, scoring 18 goals so far this tournament, according to our statistical data.
How does this affect officiating and Querétaro?
The ball strike capped off a night of high tension for the officiating crew. Earlier, Katia Itzel García had waved away two penalty appeals for the home side, Tigres, and awarded a late penalty to Querétaro that proved decisive for the win. The referee's performance was already under scrutiny before the incident with Paulo Víctor.
For Gallos Blancos, the win provides a significant boost in their push for a liguilla playoff spot. Manuel Vázquez's side now holds a record of five wins, one draw, and five losses this season. Their next league fixture, which you can check on our fixtures page, is a difficult away trip against the current league leaders. The squad, listed on our player roster, must maintain focus to build on this result.
What disciplinary consequences could follow?
While the action had no immediate on-field consequences, the Liga MX Disciplinary Committee could review the incident retrospectively. The rules allow for sanctions for acts of aggression or serious unsporting conduct, even if not punished by the referee at the time. Paulo Víctor, a key piece in Querétaro's midfield, could face a suspension if intent is determined.
The 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder is one of the players with the most minutes for the team this season. His potential absence would force the manager to reconfigure the midfield, an area where the club has several options according to our squad analysis. The club has not made an official statement on the incident, but the media attention ensures it will not be forgotten. Paulo Víctor's place in the starting lineup for the next match is now in question.
