Bolivia's national football team, representing one of South America's landlocked nations, has a history shaped as much by geography as by the sport itself. Playing many home matches at high altitude in La Paz — home to clubs like Club Bolívar, founded in 1925 — Bolivia has long used its unique environment as both a challenge and an advantage on the continental stage.
Bolivia is a member of CONMEBOL and competes in the Copa América, South America's flagship international tournament, as well as in FIFA World Cup qualifying. The team has had periods of promise within the region, though consistent qualification for the World Cup final stage has remained difficult. Domestic football has grown steadily, with clubs such as Club Bolívar and Club Independiente Petrolero — the latter winning the Bolivian División Profesional in 2021 — representing the country in CONMEBOL club competitions including the Copa Libertadores.
The national team draws its identity from a footballing culture spread across cities including La Paz and Sucre, with altitude playing a defining role in how the game is experienced in Bolivia. The passionate rivalry between La Paz-based clubs reflects the competitive spirit that feeds into the national setup.
In the current decade, Bolivia continues to develop its footballing infrastructure and player base, competing in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying cycles and Copa América editions as the country looks to strengthen its standing in South American football.