CAS Grants Fassi Provisional Return to AFA Executive Committee Amid Dispute

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), based in Lausanne, ruled in favor of Talleres de Córdoba president Andrés Fassi by granting a provisional measure that lifts the sanctions imposed by the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The decision allows Fassi and club vice president Gustavo Gatti to resume their official duties while the case is still under review, reports La Nación.

The controversy stems from an incident on September 7, 2024, after Talleres were eliminated by Boca Juniors in the Argentine Cup. Fassi entered the referee’s area to protest what he viewed as a controversial decision by referee Andrés Merlos. According to the club, Fassi was physically assaulted. Merlos, on the other hand, alleged that a member of Fassi’s entourage brandished a firearm — a claim later dismissed by police after an exhaustive search yielded no evidence.

AFA’s disciplinary tribunal suspended both executives for two and a half years, barring them from representing Talleres at official events, signing club documents, or entering designated areas for club officials. Talleres appealed to CAS and requested an injunction, arguing that such a lengthy suspension was unprecedented and unjustified.

While the CAS ruling does not resolve the case, it reinstates Fassi’s institutional rights, including his eligibility to serve on the AFA Executive Committee and Assembly. The development marks a significant shift in the power dynamics within Argentine football, with Talleres regaining a voice at the decision-making table as the legal battle continues.