AFA Hits Back at 'False' Claims Over Claudio Tapia

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has denied reports that president Claudio Tapia has been summoned by the United States judiciary, calling the claims "false" amid continued scrutiny following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The federation issued a statement rejecting media reports that alleged Tapia was under investigation and that his assets and electronic devices had been seized.

What did the AFA say?

In a statement published on its official website, the AFA dismissed reports linking Tapia to legal proceedings in the United States.

The federation said claims that the AFA president had been summoned by American authorities were untrue.

It also denied reports that Tapia's assets, mobile phone or electronic devices had been confiscated.

According to the AFA, those reports amounted to "false rumours."

Was anyone summoned by US authorities?

The AFA clarified that a summons had been issued, but insisted it was not directed at Tapia or treasurer Pablo Toviggino.

Instead, the federation said the request was sent to a third party, who had been asked to appear before a US grand jury and provide documents and correspondence relating to several football officials.

The AFA did not identify the individual involved or provide further details about the proceedings.

Why did the reports emerge?

The reports surfaced amid ongoing scrutiny of commercial agreements linked to the Argentine Football Association.

According to multiple media reports, US authorities are examining commercial contracts involving the AFA reportedly worth more than $300 million.

The reports also follow raids carried out at the federation's offices in December, although the AFA has consistently denied wrongdoing.

No charges have been announced against Tapia.

Argentina's turbulent World Cup campaign

The latest controversy comes after a challenging 2026 FIFA World Cup for Argentina, both on and off the pitch.

Lionel Scaloni's side reached the final but lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time.

Throughout the tournament, Argentina faced repeated allegations from players, coaches and fans that FIFA officials had favoured the defending champions. Those claims were rejected by FIFA, while the AFA has since indicated it is considering legal action against media outlets and social media users over what it describes as a misinformation campaign targeting the national team.

FIFA also opened disciplinary proceedings into Argentina's post-match conduct following the World Cup final, although those proceedings are separate from the reports concerning the US judiciary.

Argentina's recent international success

Despite the recent controversies, Argentina remain one of international football's most successful teams of the past five years.

Under Lionel Scaloni, they have won:

• Copa América (2021)
• Finalissima (2022)
• FIFA World Cup (2022)
• Copa América (2024)

The 2026 World Cup runners-up finish marked another deep tournament run, although it was overshadowed by off-field disputes and scrutiny surrounding the team.