Argentina’s football governing body officially refuted claims that president Claudio Tapia and treasurer Pablo Toviggino were held by authorities while exiting the United States following the World Cup final. Media outlets had alleged that the duo were stopped at John F. Kennedy International Airport, subjected to questioning, and forced to surrender electronic devices related to international contract inquiries.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) dismissed these narratives as entirely fabricated. An internal representative characterized the reports as falsehoods, though the FBI refused to provide official comment. AFA did clarify that a Florida district court issued a summons for an external individual linked to the organization. This person is required to provide documentation to a grand jury regarding various figures, including federation officials.
Led by Claudio Tapia since 2017, the AFA is currently navigating several legal challenges within Argentina, including investigations into potential tax evasion and money laundering. These legal pressures coincide with a period of political friction between the AFA and the administration of President Javier Milei. Tapia has been a vocal critic of the president’s push to transform national football clubs into private enterprises.
