Estudiantes president and former football star Juan Sebastián Verón has been handed a six-month suspension by the Argentina Football Association (AFA) following a controversial refusal to form a guard of honour for new champions Rosario Central.

The incident occurred during Estudiantes’ Clausura last-16 knockout match against Rosario Central, which Verón’s team won 1-0. Players from Estudiantes, led by Verón, turned their backs on Rosario’s squad as they entered the pitch, protesting against the Argentine FA’s recent rule change that awarded Rosario the title based on combined points rather than traditional league standings.

The Controversy Explained

Verón, who enjoyed a distinguished career with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Estudiantes, publicly disagreed with the league’s new regulations. Under the revised system, Rosario Central were named “League Champions” after finishing the season with 66 points—four more than Boca Juniors—despite the Clausura still being in progress. Previously, only the highest combined points earned teams a place in the Copa Libertadores, not the championship title itself.

The AFA deemed Verón’s and his players’ actions as “reprehensible conduct.” As a result:

• Juan Sebastián Verón: six-month suspension from all football-related activities.
• Estudiantes players involved: two-match suspension effective from the next season.

Argentina’s League Format

The Argentine top division is split into two tournaments, the Apertura and the Clausura. After a regular season of 16 games in each tournament, teams enter a knockout phase. Platense secured the Apertura title, while Rosario Central’s Clausura victory came under the newly adjusted points rule.

Estudiantes are scheduled to face Central Córdoba in the Clausura quarter-final this Saturday, with their performance now closely watched following the suspensions. Meanwhile, the Apertura champions Platense will face the Clausura winners in the year-end Champions Trophy.

Verón’s Legacy and Reaction

Juan Sebastián Verón remains one of Argentina’s most celebrated midfielders, with a career spanning European powerhouses and his beloved Estudiantes. The suspension marks a significant moment in his post-playing career, highlighting his willingness to challenge football authorities when he believes regulations are unfair.

While some fans and pundits have criticized the protest, others see it as a principled stand by a football icon defending traditional competition values. The episode has sparked nationwide debate over the AFA’s rule changes and the treatment of clubs in championship decisions.

Looking Ahead

The coming weeks will be pivotal for Estudiantes as they navigate the Clausura knockout stage without Verón’s direct involvement. Fans will also watch closely how Rosario Central approaches the playoffs amid ongoing controversy. The incident has brought renewed attention to Argentina’s evolving league structure and the balance between regulation and sporting tradition.