BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Argentine judicial authorities have imposed significant travel restrictions on Claudio ‘Chiqui’ Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), alongside four other high-ranking officials. The preventive measure comes as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct involving unpaid social security contributions.
Federal Judge Diego Amarante issued the ruling that prohibits Tapia and his associates from leaving Argentine territory while mandating their appearance before court on March 5. The judicial documents, obtained by The Associated Press, cite ‘the seriousness of the investigated events’ as primary justification for the travel ban, intended to ensure proper legal proceedings.
The case centers on accusations brought by Argentina’s Customs Collection and Control Agency (ARCA), alleging Tapia’s administration failed to pay approximately 19 billion pesos ($12.8 million) in mandatory social contributions during 2024 and 2025. This marks the first substantial legal action against Tapia, who faces multiple parallel investigations into his personal assets and the AFA’s financial management.
The travel restrictions create potential complications for Argentina’s football leadership, particularly regarding the upcoming Finalissima match between Copa America champion Argentina and Euro 2024 winner Spain. Scheduled for March 27 in Qatar, the prestigious international fixture might proceed without AFA’s top official should the judicial ban remain enforced after his court appearance.
Additional officials subject to identical restrictions include Treasurer Pablo Toviggino, Secretary General Cristian Malaspina, General Director Gustavo Lorenzo, and former Racing Club President Víctor Blanco. Neither Tapia nor his colleagues have publicly commented on Judge Amarante’s ruling as of press time.
While legally obligated to appear in court, Tapia retains the right to remain silent during judicial questioning. The case represents a significant development in Argentina’s ongoing efforts to address financial transparency within sports governance structures.