In the ongoing investigation related to AFAgate, a prominent judge, Carlos Mahiques, has come under scrutiny after it was revealed that he celebrated his birthday at a luxurious estate associated with Pablo Toviggino, the second-in-command of the Argentine Football Association (AFA). This estate, located in Pilar and covering 5.5 hectares, is at the center of a legal battle to discern the true ownership, a question that has become particularly contentious. The implications of Mahiques's celebration at this site raise concerns regarding judicial impartiality in what is already a high-profile case.

As the Federal Criminal Cassation Chamber prepares to vote on whether the investigation remains at the federal level, as sought by the accused, or shifts to economic criminal court, Mahiques's recent social engagement has sparked discussions among colleagues and legal experts. Witnesses describe a lavish celebration attended by fellow magistrates, prosecutors, and various notable figures from the AFA, casting doubts on Mahiques's ability to rise above potential conflicts of interest. The fallout from this revelation could influence not only the public perception of the judicial process but also the future integrity of legal proceedings concerning high-stakes cases tied to prominent individuals in Argentine sports.

This incident exemplifies the broader concerns surrounding the intersection of law and sports in Argentina, particularly in light of previous scandals that have marred the reputation of national sports bodies. As the country watches closely, the judiciary's handling of AFAgate will be critical in restoring faith in the system's ability to administer justice fairly, irrespective of personal connections or societal pressures. Should Mahiques be perceived as biased due to the implications of his birthday celebration, it may necessitate a reconsideration of judicial appointments in cases involving intertwined interests between governance and sports organizations.