Lionel Messi farewell overshadowed by chants against AFA president Claudio Tapia

Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia was targeted by angry chants from supporters during Lionel Messi’s farewell ceremony at the Estadio Monumental, shortly before Argentina’s match against Benin.

The abuse was heard before kick-off and returned after the game, as a drone display was staged in honour of Messi. Supporters directed insults at the president of the Argentine Football Association, with chants including: “Chiqui Tapia, you informer. Chiqui Tapia, you corrupt son of a bitch.”

The chanting began in the upper section of the Centenario stand and spread to other areas of the stadium as the occasion continued, according to Argentine newspaper La Nacion. Spectators were still making their way into the ground while the chants were taking place.

The Sivori stand, where the noise was also heard, is one of the most prominent sections of the Estadio Monumental. It is known for the passionate support of River Plate fans, particularly in its upper tier.

Argentine journalist Juanma Tucci described the scenes in a post on X, writing: “People insulted the president of the Argentine Football Association at the Estadio Monumental, minutes before Argentina-Benin. Ruining Argentine football does not come for free.”

Tucci’s post, published on 6 October 2026, was accompanied by footage from the stadium and referred to the chant “Chiqui Tapia boton” during Messi’s farewell to the Argentina national team.

The chants resumed once Argentina’s match had ended. As the drone tribute to Messi was presented, Tapia was again met with jeers from sections of the crowd.

The ceremony was held as part of the farewell for Messi, while Argentina faced Benin at the Estadio Monumental. Despite the focus on the captain’s tribute, the reaction to Tapia became a prominent feature of the event, with the criticism continuing from before kick-off until after the final whistle.