Paraguayans burn referee Iván Barton piñata in San Juan festival protest

Paraguayans channeled their frustration with Salvadoran referee Iván Barton by burning a piñata bearing his likeness during the traditional San Juan festivities. The effigy was part of the 'Judas Kai' or burning of Judas tradition, a popular celebration in Paraguay.

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It's the best-selling.

Barton has become a deeply unpopular figure in Paraguay following his controversial decision to send off player Miguel Almirón during a World Cup qualifier match against Turkey. Almirón was shown a red card for covering his mouth while addressing an opponent, a decision many Paraguayan fans interpreted as harsh and detrimental to their team's performance. The referee also implemented other recent FIFA regulations during the game, which were seen by many as unfairly disadvantaging Paraguay.

Despite the widespread criticism, FIFA has backed Barton's performance, appointing him as the main referee for a crucial World Cup match between Japan and Sweden. Meanwhile, Paraguayan journalist Jorge 'Chipi' Vera had his accreditation revoked by FIFA after calling Barton a "thief" during his match broadcast.

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Identifying and burning a repudiated character as Judas allows citizens to vent their frustrations.

Vendors at Asunción's Mercado 4 reported that piñatas of Barton were the best-selling items, fetching over $13. While other public figures, including President Santiago Peña and former President Horacio Cartes, were also depicted as Judas figures, Barton's effigy garnered the most attention. Cultural promoter Javier Torres explained that burning effigies of disliked figures allows citizens to release pent-up frustrations, with Barton currently being the most prominent target due to the World Cup incident.

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There are several candidates (to be burned as Judas Kai).