Due to a spike in Covid-19 infection rates, Argentina have been removed as the host of the Copa America. On short notice, Brazil have now been confirmed as hosts for the continental competition.
The event, which will feature ten South American nations, was to be held in Argentina and Colombia from June 13 to July 10. It would have been the first time the competiton would have been co-hosted since its inception.
It comes days after we reported that Colombia were also withdrawn as a co-host on May 20 after series of protests plagued the country, and Argentina has now followed suit owing to “current conditions,” as per CONMEBOL.
The circumstances that led to the decision were not disclosed by CONMEBOL, but Argentina is currently facing a rise in COVID-19 cases and that seems like the obvious reason why.
“CONMEBOL is evaluating offers from other countries that have expressed interest in hosting the continental competition,’ the governing body stated in a brief statement. “We will provide updates as quickly as possible.”
According to WHO figures, the country hit their record numbers in a single week last Thursday.
What next for the Copa America?
In an exciting turn of events, no other country but Brazil were left as the credible candidates to host the competition. Chile and Paraguay also offered to be hosts as well.
A statement read: “The 2021 Copa America will be played in Brazil. Tournament start and end dates are confirmed. The venues and the fixture will be informed by CONMEBOL in the next few hours. The oldest national team tournament in the world will make the whole continent vibrate!
“Brazil will host CONMEBOL 2021. The best soccer in the world will bring joy and passion to millions of South Americans. CONMEBOL thanks the President Jair Bolsonao and his team, as well as the Brazilian Football Confederation for opening the doors of that country to what is today the safest sporting event in the world. South America will shine in Brazil with all its stars!”
According to CONMEBOL, each nation taking part will get at least $4 million this year, with the champion receiving an extra $10 million.
