Argentine Football League Halts Play in Support of AFA President
Argentina's domestic football league has announced the suspension of its ninth matchday, a move made in solidarity with Argentine Football Association (AFA) chief Claudio 'Chiqui' Tapia. The decision comes after a court granted Tapia permission to leave the country, despite an ongoing tax fraud investigation against him and the AFA. The league's action underscores the deep divisions and controversies currently affecting Argentine football.
Tax Fraud Allegations and Travel Ban Reversal
The controversy centers on a tax fraud investigation initiated by Argentina's tax authorities, ARCA (formerly AFIP). The probe alleges that the AFA illegally withheld retirement contributions from players and employees and failed to pay taxes amounting to approximately 19 billion pesos (around US$13.8 million or 11.7 million euros) between March 2024 and September 2025. Initially, Tapia was barred from leaving the country. However, a court ruling on Monday, five days after the initial prohibition, overturned the travel ban. The court stated that 'The mere existence of a criminal investigation does not in itself constitute sufficient grounds to prevent the applicant from traveling.' To secure his travel, Tapia was required to post bail of 5 million pesos (approximately US$3,500). He had sought permission to attend a Colombian Football Federation event and a CONMEBOL board meeting.
Judicial Proceedings and AFA's Defense
Claudio Tapia, along with the AFA treasurer and three other officials, has been summoned to appear in court on March 5 to provide testimony regarding the allegations. The AFA has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that it has 'no outstanding debt for the tax obligations that have been used as grounds for the complaint.' The association claims to be the victim of a 'smear campaign' and suggests that the government of President Javier Milei is involved, linking the situation to a dispute with a businessman over the organization of friendly international matches.
Broader Investigations and League's Response
Beyond the current tax fraud case, the AFA is also facing a separate investigation into alleged money laundering. This broader inquiry led to raids on the association's premises and several first-division clubs, including Racing, Independiente, and San Lorenzo, in December. In response to the unfolding legal challenges surrounding its leadership, the Liga Profesional de Fútbol, at the request of its member clubs, announced the suspension of the ninth round of the Apertura tournament. Club leaders have also called for a 'work stoppage' to take place between March 5 and March 8, coinciding with Tapia's court appearance.
5 Comments
Donatello
Chiqui is being targeted! This is clearly a political attack, not real justice.
Raphael
They talk about smear campaigns, but the evidence is mounting. Pay your taxes!
Donatello
While Tapia, like anyone, deserves due process and a fair investigation, the sheer amount of money involved in the tax fraud allegations is deeply concerning. This situation demands complete transparency to restore any semblance of trust in Argentine football leadership.
Michelangelo
The AFA's claim of a 'smear campaign' by the government isn't entirely far-fetched, given the political landscape. Yet, with ongoing investigations into both tax fraud and money laundering, the association must provide concrete evidence to counter these very serious accusations.
Donatello
Milei's government trying to control football. Not on our watch!