Argentine Football Association Relocates Headquarters to Pilar

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has established a new operational base in Pilar, a move that signifies a strategic shift for the organization. This new headquarters, located on Mercedes street, is emerging as a central hub for AFA's activities, complementing its existing facilities in Ezeiza and Viamonte.

Sources close to AFA president Claudio "Chiqui" Tapia highlight the transformation of the Pilar site from undeveloped land into a functional center. The relocation is reportedly influenced by the change in national government with the arrival of Javier Milei in late 2023. The AFA aims to operate independently and avoid scrutiny from the General Inspectorate of Justice, an entity that oversees corporate governance.

The AFA's proximity to Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof, who was re-elected in 2023, played a role in securing the land in Pilar. Local mayor Federico Achával facilitated the transfer of the grounds, enabling the AFA to establish its new home.

“

There is not a single person who does not praise how that place turned out.

Recently, the AFA's decision-making process regarding the relocation of its assembly elections has drawn attention. An initial bulletin called for the election of assembly members for the promotion categories to be held at the Ezeiza complex, a customary practice under Tapia's leadership since 2017. However, eleven days later, the venue was changed to Pilar.

This shift to Pilar is interpreted as a deliberate signal to both the judiciary and the media, asserting that the Argentine football administration operates from its new headquarters. The timing of this change is notable, occurring shortly after a judge described the AFA's change of domicile to Pilar as a "mere formality and legal fiction." The AFA has denied any connection between the chosen venue and ongoing legal matters, stating that the assembly convenes at its designated location.

“

a mere formality and legal fiction