Key Witness in AFA Financial Probe to Testify in U.S.

A significant development is anticipated in the U.S. Department of Justice's investigation into the financial movements of the Argentine Football Association (AFA). A key witness, whose identity is being kept under strict wraps, is scheduled to appear before a grand jury in Miami on Thursday.

Sources close to the investigation suggest that the witness might be Leandro Petersen, the AFA's commercial and marketing director. However, Petersen has repeatedly denied this possibility, stating he would be in Buenos Aires this week. Adding to the intrigue, the AFA announced Petersen would lead a "Sponsor Day" event on Friday at their training facility, an event designed to thank the association's sponsors.

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This week I will be in Buenos Aires.

Despite Petersen's denials and the AFA's public schedule, rumors persist that his lawyers may have contacted Miami prosecutors to reschedule the hearing. This potential move aims to preserve the confidential nature of the ongoing investigation. If the hearing is rescheduled, the witness might provide testimony directly to the prosecutor under oath, with the details later sealed.

Petersen, who has been with the AFA since 2017, reportedly handles contracts but claims he has never directly managed funds. The investigation, which also involves the FBI, continues to cast a shadow over the AFA's financial operations in the United States.

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I am going to meet with the president [Tapia] next week, now we have the 'Sponsor Day'. The important thing is that the project continues beyond individuals.