The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) said on Sunday that Argentina would no longer host the Copa America, throwing the troubled tournament into doubt just 13 days before it was due to kick-off. The tournament, featuring 10 South American nations, had been due to be held in Argentina and Colombia between June 13th and July 10th, the first time in its 105-year history with joint hosts. Conmebol did not disclose the nature of the circumstances that led to the decision but Argentina is currently experiencing a surge in Covid-19 cases. The last Copa America, held in Brazil in 2019, brought in $118 million and was the second biggest annual source of revenue after the Copa Libertadores, the equivalent of Europe’s Champions League. This year each competing nation is to receive a minimum of $4 million, with the winner receiving an additional $10 million, Conmebol said.

Source: The Irish Times May 31, 2021 03:56 UTC