FBI Probes Argentina Over Alleged $300 Million Money-Laundering During FIFA World Cup 2026… AFA Breaks Silence on Claudio Tapia Claims

Just days after finishing as runners-up at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Argentina have found themselves at the centre of a major off-field controversy. Reports from Argentine media suggest that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is examining an alleged $300 million money-laundering case linked to commercial agreements involving the Argentine Football Association (AFA).

The reports have triggered widespread attention across the football world, although no criminal charges have been announced and the investigation is understood to be in its early stages.

What Is the Investigation About?

According to reports published by Argentine media, the investigation focuses on sponsorship and commercial agreements valued at more than $300 million.

US authorities are reportedly examining whether money connected to these contracts was allegedly laundered through the United States banking system. Since some of the international financial transactions are believed to have passed through American banks, the FBI is said to have jurisdiction over aspects of the case.

At this stage, investigators have not publicly accused the AFA or any of its officials of wrongdoing.

Reports Claim Claudio Tapia Was Questioned

Several Argentine reports alleged that AFA President Claudio ‘Chiqui’ Tapia was questioned by US authorities shortly before boarding his return flight to Buenos Aires following the World Cup.

The reports also claimed that officials temporarily confiscated his mobile phone as part of the investigation.

However, there has been no official confirmation from US authorities regarding those claims.

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AFA Rejects Detention Claims

The Argentine Football Association has strongly denied reports suggesting that Claudio Tapia or senior federation officials were detained or compelled to testify before a US court.

In an official statement, the federation said neither Tapia nor AFA Treasurer Pablo Toviggino had been summoned by any US judicial authority.

The governing body, however, acknowledged that another individual had been asked to appear before a US grand jury to potentially provide information relating to several people, including officials connected with the federation.

The AFA maintained that reports claiming Tapia had been arrested or detained were false.

No Charges Filed So Far

Despite the widespread speculation, the FBI has not publicly announced any arrests or criminal charges related to the reported investigation.

Authorities have also not released any official findings regarding the alleged financial transactions.

As matters stand, the reported inquiry remains at a preliminary stage, and the allegations have not been proven in court.

With Argentina’s remarkable FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign still fresh in fans’ minds, the developing legal scrutiny has shifted attention away from the team’s performances on the pitch to questions surrounding the federation’s commercial dealings.