A series of leaked conversations have brought Argentine football referees under scrutiny and revived an investigation into alleged match-fixing, according to information released on March 30. The case also involves prominent officials within the Argentine Football Association (AFA).
The investigation mentions referees Luis Lobo Medina, Fernando Espinoza, Adrián Franklin, and Jorge Nelson Sosa. These individuals are alleged to have communicated with former adviser Juan Pablo Beacon. The analyzed chats reportedly suggest attempts to influence sporting results through payments and benefits linked to specific refereeing decisions.
One notable incident centers on Lobo Medina, who was accused by legislator Facundo Del Gaiso regarding a 2021 match between Tigre and Mitre de Santiago del Estero. The accusation claims that a payment of $400,000 was arranged to favor Tigre. The match ended in a 3-3 draw and has been questioned due to key decisions such as expulsions and a disputed penalty.
Controversy also surrounds Fernando Espinoza, who after officiating a game between Racing and Arsenal expressed concern in messages about potential consequences of his actions and sought support from AFA officials. In these exchanges, “Pablo” is mentioned—a reference believed to be Pablo Toviggino, the treasurer of the AFA.
Another episode under investigation involves Jorge Sosa, who allegedly received money for favoring Barracas Central in a game against Belgrano. Records indicate that payment occurred on the same day as the match following several contentious decisions including expulsions and a goal suspected of being offside.
Additionally, there are references to Adrián Franklin—currently associated with video assistant referee (VAR)—who reportedly indicated willingness in chat messages to intervene in specific situations relevant to matches under review.
The progress of this inquiry comes during what has been described as a complex judicial week for AFA president Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia and his associates amid other ongoing cases involving them. Authorities must now determine whether these conversations are authentic and if crimes related to result manipulation or improper payments occurred.
The scandal once again raises questions about transparency within Argentine football refereeing systems while highlighting ongoing institutional tensions within local football.
