FBI probe into Argentina FA sparks fresh FIFA corruption allegations
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KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Molina alleges FIFA protected the AFA despite ongoing financial investigations.
- A Miami company allegedly received AFA commercial rights on a 30% commission.
- No court has proven the allegations against FIFA or the AFA.
The allegations, which include claims of money laundering, embezzlement and questionable commercial agreements, have reignited debate over FIFA's relationship with the AFA following Argentina's run to the latter stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
It is important to note that the allegations outlined below have not been proven in court, and neither FIFA nor the AFA has been found guilty of the offences alleged in Molina's report.
World Cup controversies add to growing scrutiny
Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Argentina's campaign has attracted repeated controversy, particularly over refereeing decisions.Critics questioned several incidents involving the defending champions, including their dramatic Round of 16 victory over Egypt after recovering from two goals down to win 3-2.
Further debate followed Argentina's quarter-final victory over Switzerland, where Swiss forward Breel Embolo was sent off following a VAR review. The dismissal proved pivotal as Argentina eventually secured a 3-1 extra-time victory.
Those incidents prompted renewed accusations on social media that FIFA had shown favourable treatment towards Lionel Messi's side.
However, no evidence has been presented proving that refereeing decisions were manipulated.
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Molina alleges FIFA shielded AFA during financial investigations
Molina's investigation goes far beyond on-field controversy.According to his report, FIFA allegedly continued to support the AFA despite ongoing investigations relating to money laundering and embezzlement, as well as reported US federal investigations involving more than $300 million.
Among the report's most significant claims is that FIFA transferred tournament prize money to a private company rather than directly to the AFA.
Molina alleges that just days before Argentina lifted the 2022 World Cup, the AFA assigned its international commercial rights to a newly established company based in Miami that reportedly had no previous experience in football.
Commercial rights deal raises further questions
According to the investigation, the Miami-based company received a fixed commission of 30% on all international commercial revenue generated by the AFA.Molina described that commission as both "unprecedented" and "illogical."
The report further alleges that millions of dollars were transferred through shell companies linked to individuals facing bankruptcy, significant debts or living in public housing.
Some of those individuals allegedly disappeared shortly after receiving the funds, changing their contact details whilst neighbours reportedly observed sudden improvements in their lifestyles.
The investigation claims portions of the money were later used to purchase luxury properties, private aircraft, yachts and to finance ventures unrelated to football.
Molina also alleges that investigators suspect certain AFA officials personally benefited from the arrangements, including through ownership structures involving luxury real estate registered in the names of third parties.
Allegations extend to FIFA officials
The report also questions FIFA's oversight of the transactions.Molina alleges that FIFA legal director Emilio GarcÃa maintained close relationships with senior AFA officials, raising concerns over whether those ties influenced investigations into the association.
At the time of writing, these allegations remain unproven, and no court has established wrongdoing by GarcÃa, FIFA or the AFA in relation to the claims.
Infantino faces fresh political criticism
The report arrives amid wider criticism of FIFA President Gianni Infantino during the 2026 World Cup.His close relationship with US President Donald Trump has attracted significant attention throughout the tournament.
Among the controversies highlighted were Infantino presenting Trump with FIFA's inaugural peace prize and previously wearing a red "Make America Great Again"-style cap earlier this year.
Critics have also questioned FIFA's handling of disciplinary matters involving United States striker Folarin Balogun after claims that political influence contributed to overturning his suspension before the match against Belgium.
However, no official evidence has been produced confirming political interference in FIFA's disciplinary process.
Investigation could have wider consequences
Molina's findings have generated fresh debate over transparency within world football's governing structures.If further investigations substantiate any of the report's most serious allegations, the fallout could extend well beyond the Argentina FA and place renewed scrutiny on FIFA's governance.
For now, the claims remain allegations rather than established fact, but they have added another layer of controversy to a World Cup already marked by fierce debate both on and off the pitch.
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