The tragedy that mourned football: AFA referee dies in a car accident in Santa Cruz

Emanuel Leguizamón, a renowned referee of the Argentine Football Association, lost his life in a traffic accident that shook the Argentine football world. The crash occurred in the early hours of Monday, February 9, on National Route 3 in Santa Cruz Province, as the officiating team was returning from Río Gallegos to Santa Rosa, La Pampa.

Details of the tragedy: The trip that changed everything

The incident happened around 11 a.m., about 40 kilometers from Caleta Olivia, according to the Patagonian media Mejor Informado. The vehicle carrying the referees was involved in a violent collision, triggering an emergency response that mobilized police and medical personnel. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and urgently transported the occupants to the local hospital for immediate medical attention.

The officiating team in the line of fire

Alongside Leguizamón were three other members of the officiating team: head referee Cristian Rubiano and assistants Diego Pereyra and Yasu Muñoz. The three survivors sustained serious injuries and remain hospitalized under continuous medical observation. This group of referees was returning from an important assignment: they had officiated the first final of the 2025/2026 Regional Federal Amateur Tournament the previous Sunday, where they faced Atlético Boxing Club and La Amistad de Cipolletti. In that match, Leguizamón served as the fourth official.

Football pauses its rhythm: Tributes and reactions

The news of his passing caused deep shock within the football community. The Professional Football League officially announced via its social media that a minute of silence would be observed during the matches played on Monday, February 9, and Tuesday, February 10, in memory of the deceased referee. The organization expressed its sincerest condolences to Leguizamón’s family and loved ones, emphasizing the importance of his work on Argentine pitches.

Emanuel Leguizamón: The career of a passionate referee

His recent addition to the professional roster of the AFA allowed him to officiate in national football categories, demonstrating exemplary dedication to his refereeing vocation. Leguizamón trained at the Santa Rosa Cultural Football League, where he developed his passion for refereeing. His career as a referee was complemented by previous experience as a player, giving him a deep understanding of the sport.

Beyond his activity on the field, Leguizamón was a multifaceted professional working in the real estate sector. His refereeing history included officiating the final of the provincial tournament in La Pampa between Alvear FBC and All Boys of Santa Rosa, as well as participating as a judge in various matches of the Regional Amateur. His legacy as a referee will be remembered for his commitment to excellence and his unwavering passion for Argentine football.