aArgentina’s football shines on the pitch, but off the pitch it has experienced some embarrassing and unsettling moments. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has been placed under an embargo and its president, Claudio Chiqui Tapia, has been charged with tax evasion. The incident has already caused international controversy just months before the 2026 World Cup.
Why was AFA indicted?
The decision was made by Judge Diego Amarante, who is investigating AFA for “misappropriation of tax and social security resources.”
According to the court’s ruling, the company faces claims of more than 19 billion Argentine pesos (approximately $13 million) for unpaid contributions from the past two years. In addition, an embargo of P350 million was imposed on the organization and its key directors.
Who is involved in tax evasion?
This incident not only involves “Chiqui” Tapia, but also:
Pablo Tovisino (Treasurer) Cristian Malaspina (General Secretary) Gustavo Lorenzo (CEO) Victor Blanco
Chiqui Tapia’s stance and AFA’s defense
A few days before sentencing, Claudio Tapia had filed a brief denying responsibility for the events under investigation. His statement said there was “a total lack of intervention” in the decision that gave rise to the complaint. Meanwhile, AFA also issued a statement defending its actions.
The organization assured that all corresponding returns have been filed and payments have been made, albeit with a delay, and, while interest will accrue, no additional penalties will be incurred.
Conflicts with institutional implications
The incident occurred after a complaint was filed by Direxion General Inpositiva, which reports to Argentina’s tax agency, and the conflict escalated to an institutional level.
The investigation is progressing with less than three months until the start of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada. It is worth mentioning that one of the measures is the banning of Tapia and Tovisino, which could complicate their presence in the tournament. Considering these events, this is probably the best thing for the Albiceleste, as it is undoubtedly true that the image of the Argentina national team, the reigning world champions, has been tarnished.
