Argentine Football Association under investigation for fraud and money laundering as raids target soccer clubs
Federal investigators raided AFA headquarters and dozens of clubs in a sweeping probe into alleged tax evasion and financial misconduct involving hundreds of millions in football revenue.
Argentina’s football governing body is in deep trouble. Federal investigators have launched a sweeping probe into the Argentine Football Association (AFA), targeting its finances over allegations of fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion that could involve hundreds of millions of dollars in misrouted football revenue.
Coordinated raids hit AFA headquarters in Buenos Aires and as many as 30 local soccer clubs on December 9, 2025, with authorities seizing devices and financial accounts. The operation was ordered by Federal Judge Luis Armella.
What investigators found, and what they’re looking for
The investigation centers on alleged money laundering and tax evasion involving Sur Finanzas, a financial services firm that sponsors various AFA competitions.
AFA President Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia and Treasurer Pablo Toviggino face accusations of withholding approximately $13 million in taxes during 2024 and 2025.
Investigators are examining claims that roughly $276 million in football revenue may never have reached the AFA at all, allegedly diverted through transactions involving a little-known company.
The raids on between 17 and 30 clubs suggest investigators believe the financial misconduct wasn’t limited to AFA’s central offices.
The broader context of football corruption in Argentina
The AFA controls the flow of broadcast rights, sponsorship deals, and international competition fees for one of the world’s most successful football nations. Tapia has led the AFA since 2017. His tenure has coincided with the sport’s growing commercialization in South America, where broadcast and sponsorship revenues have surged.