Sergio Aguero not accused as Argentina investigators examine proposed ticketing venture

Sergio Aguero has been named in a judicial investigation in Argentina into an organisation suspected of international drug trafficking and money laundering. Documents reviewed by investigators allege that people linked to the group tried to use the former Argentina striker’s image and global profile in a commercial project.

Aguero is not accused of any wrongdoing in the case, which is being overseen by judge Pablo Yadarola. Investigators believe the organisation has international connections and say its members sought to associate a ticketing platform with Aguero and the esports organisation he founded.

Messages and files recovered from phones seized by the authorities reportedly show negotiations over the launch of a brand called “Tickets Crew”. The discussions allegedly involved attempts by members of the suspected organisation to use Aguero’s name and reputation to help develop the business.

The investigation centres on a group suspected of smuggling cocaine from Bolivia and synthetic drugs from Spain. Several people have been arrested, including Pibito Alvarez, who began a hunger strike after being detained.

Proposed business discussions

The case file contains messages between people authorities believe are connected to the organisation. They include Diego Francisco Anzaloni, Bono Uziel De Carlucci, Raul Omar “Bruja” Manzoni and Alvarez.

Some of their activities allegedly took place at a premises on Ricardo Bocchini Street in Avellaneda, close to Independiente’s stadium.

One message dated 30 January 2026 records a conversation between Anzaloni and De Carlucci about the possibility of reaching an agreement with Aguero soon over the ticketing platform.

Further conversations, held several weeks later, reportedly considered operating the venture through several companies. One of those companies was linked to an individual described by investigators as an alleged drug distributor, while another was intended to handle the project associated with Aguero.

The messages also referred to a trip to Mexico, which was reportedly planned to advance the commercial negotiations. On 22 April, Anzaloni allegedly told intermediaries that he had met Aguero in person and that, according to the messages, the agreement was close to completion.

Investigators also uncovered an effort to raise about 10,000 euros from potential investors. The documents indicate that Anzaloni was trying to secure the money so Aguero would not have to contribute to the project’s initial capital.

All of the events described in the case remain subject to judicial investigation. The information contained in the file does not indicate that Aguero has been charged or formally accused.

The former Manchester City and Argentina forward retired from professional football in 2021 after suffering persistent knee problems. Since then, he has remained active in business, esports and digital media, while continuing to be one of the most recognisable Argentine footballers internationally.