The United States Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have launched a preliminary investigation into the Argentine Football Association (AFA).
The inquiry has also been expanded to include AFA president Claudio Tapia over allegations of financial misconduct connected to the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
FBI scrutinises transfer funds done by Argentina FA
According to GOAL, federal investigators are examining whether substantial amounts of money potentially amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars that moved through US financial institutions during the tournament could amount to wire fraud or money laundering under United States law.
The Miami Herald also reported on the developing investigation, stating that authorities are focusing on financial transactions processed through American banks while the United States is serving as a co-host of the FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
AFA probe draws wider scrutiny
The federal investigation introduces another layer of legal scrutiny to what has already been a challenging World Cup campaign for Argentina.
In separate developments, both Algeria and Egypt have reportedly submitted formal petitions against Argentina during the tournament, although the available reports did not specify the reasons behind either complaint.
The developments have also generated discussion across social media, with several users highlighting what they described as Argentina’s scheduling advantage in the quarterfinals.
The FBI is investigating Argentina’s football federation.
The AFA is reportedly under investigation over alleged fraud and money laundering involving an estimated $300 million tied to sponsorship deals and third-party financial operations.
Via @LANACION pic.twitter.com/NyRzcOto3T
— Complex (@Complex) July 8, 2026
@PaddyStirling24 said: “Interesting how Argentina’s start time is the latest of all the quarterfinal matches, giving them the coolest possible temperature, while every other match has to duel it out in hot weather. “Local start times (venue local): Spain vs. Belgium (9pm), France vs. Morocco (8pm), Norway vs. England (10pm) and Argentina vs. Switzerland (2am).”
@NUKE0NX offered a more pointed assessment, writing: “Every World Cup they have won was filled with corruption. Most fraudulent country.”
Meanwhile, Argentina are scheduled to take on Switzerland in the World Cup quarterfinal at Kansas City Stadium on Sunday, July 12, according to Al Jazeera.
