Argentina is embroiled in a major corruption scandal in football, just a few months before the national team attempts to defend its World Cup title. The name of the president of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia, has been mentioned in investigations related to tax evasion and money laundering, prompting the judiciary to prohibit him from leaving the country.

The Argentine national team is preparing for the Finalissima match against Spain on March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, which brings together the South American champion with the European champion. However, the main goal is to defend the World Cup title that the Argentine team won in 2022.

According to investigations, Tapia and the union's treasurer, Pablo Tofighino, are suspected of embezzling approximately 19 billion Argentine pesos during the period from 2024 to 2025. A system of shell companies used to launder money received from various invoices was uncovered. These companies were supposed to transfer the funds to the union, but a significant portion of it remained withheld and did not reach the union's coffers.

The crisis was not limited to the federation but also affected current and former club presidents in Argentina, and its effects reached abroad, including Spain, where some of these shell companies are based. Luxury cars and unjustified properties, including lavish homes, were seized from some officials.

This situation led Adidas to suspend its payments to the federation, while Coca-Cola plans to sue Tapia and several local football figures. Meanwhile, some clubs have announced their support for the federation officials and threatened to strike during the ninth round of the local league, increasing the pressure just a few months before the World Cup kicks off, posing a significant challenge for Argentine football.