Police raid Argentine FA headquarters and top clubs in a sweeping money-laundering probe linked to a major sponsor, months before the World Cup defence
BUENOS AIRES: Argentine police have raided the national football association headquarters and several top clubs in a major money-laundering investigation.
The sweeping operation, involving 25 to 30 raids on teams and private homes, was carried out on Tuesday.
A police source confirmed the Argentine Football Association (AFA) headquarters and the national team’s training ground south of the capital were targeted.
First-division clubs raided include Racing, Independiente, Banfield, and San Lorenzo.
The probe centres on financial company Sur Finanzas, the official league and national team sponsor last year.
Tax authorities last month accused the firm of dodging taxes on Argentine pesos equivalent to $550 million.
Authorities are investigating if the firm used frontmen to loan money to clubs in exchange for benefits like broadcasting rights.
The investigating judge has lifted banking confidentiality for the clubs involved.
Racing Club stated its 2023 deal with Sur Finanzas was “only an advertising and sponsorship deal” set to expire on December 31, 2025.
The club added that Sur Finanzas currently owes it money.
Another raided club, Atletico Excursionistas, denied any financial ties beyond a standard sponsorship.
The scandal erupts as Argentine football is embroiled in internal power struggles.
AFA president Claudio Tapia, who is close to the owner of Sur Finanzas, has clashed with President Javier Milei’s government over club ownership models.
Controversy also surrounds the AFA’s recent creation of a new championship, which saw Rosario Central crowned champion before the season’s final.
One of the raided clubs, Barracas Central, was run by Tapia for two decades before his son took over.
The club faces allegations of referee favouritism during its recent rise to the top division.
Tapia recently stated he has “many years ahead” leading Argentine football, with his current mandate ending in 2028. – AFP
