Claudio Tapia to be investigated for alleged illicit enrichment

Federal justice in Comodoro Py has assumed jurisdiction to investigate Claudio ‘Chiqui’ Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), for alleged illicit enrichment. The investigation follows a complaint filed in April by businessman Guillermo Tofoni, who alleges that Tapia’s assets increased by approximately 1,000% between 2017 and 2024 while he held positions at CEAMSE, the public entity managing waste for the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires.

The dispute over whether the case should be handled by the City of Buenos Aires criminal courts or federal courts has been resolved, placing the case under the authority of federal judge Ariel Lijo. The complaint is based on an analysis of Tapia’s sworn asset declarations. According to the allegations, Tapia’s wealth grew significantly through real estate acquisitions in high-value areas of the City and Buenos Aires province, alongside substantial increases in bank deposits and cash holdings.

This marks the first judicial case focused specifically on Tapia’s role as a public official, as opposed to previous investigations regarding his management of the AFA. Tapia and AFA treasurer Pablo Toviggino are also facing separate legal scrutiny regarding tax issues and the management of international funds.