FBI Probes Argentina FA Over Money Laundering Claims

Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association. Photo: Getty Images

The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has opened an investigation into the financial activities of the Argentine Football Association (AFA) over allegations of possible money laundering, according to a report by Argentine newspaper La Nación.

The investigation is focused on how the AFA, led by president Claudio Tapia, moved funds through the US financial system and whether any transactions involved criminal activity, the report said.

According to La Nación, investigators are also examining Florida-based company TourProdEnter LLC, which reportedly oversees the AFA’s international financial operations. The newspaper claimed that documents reviewed by its reporters showed the company processed at least $260 million in AFA-related revenue through accounts held at five major US financial institutions — Citibank, Synovus, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase and PNC Bank.

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While some of the money was reportedly linked to legitimate operating expenses, the report alleged that around $57 million was transferred to companies and individuals without clear economic justification.

                       FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the head of the Argentina FA, Claudio Tapia. Image credit: Collected

The newspaper further claimed that millions of dollars were sent to firms with no apparent business activity or identifiable role in providing services to the AFA. Some of the beneficiaries were reportedly linked to individuals who, according to official records cited by La Nación, received social welfare benefits and lived in cities including Bariloche and Buenos Aires.

The FBI has not publicly confirmed the reported investigation, and no charges have been filed against the AFA, Tapia or any other individuals connected to the allegations.

The probe comes as Argentine football faces increased attention following the country’s controversial 3-2 win over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The match attracted criticism over several refereeing decisions, adding to scrutiny around the national football setup.

Tapia has previously faced legal challenges. In March, he was charged with tax evasion, while he remains involved in a dispute with Argentine President Javier Milei over the ownership model of football clubs in the country.

Neither the AFA nor TourProdEnter LLC has issued a public statement addressing the latest allegations.

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  • Tope Oke

    Temitope is a storyteller driven by a passion for the intricate world of geopolitics, the raw beauty of wildlife, and the dynamic spirit of sports. As both a writer and editor, he excels at crafting insightful and impactful narratives that not only inform but also inspire and advocate for positive change. Through his work, he aims to shed light on complex issues, celebrate diverse perspectives, and encourage readers to engage with the world around them in a more meaningful way.

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