Pressure built on FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday over his cancelled plan to bring private finance into football's World Cup, with European governing body UEFA reiterating a threat to boycott tournaments. The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday but UEFA released a blunt statement in response.UEFA's initial threat issued last Thursday to boycott FIFA competitions is said to have been pivotal in forcing Infantino to shelve the private investment deal.Calls for him to step down had grown since he abandoned it last Saturday.FIFA said it could raise up to $4.2 billion based on a valuation of $20 billion for a new commercial subsidiary, called the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which it proposed would run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.Although the abandonment of the proposal was one of UEFA's conditions for it to withdraw its threat, it said that not all of its demands had been met."UEFA's associations were very clear about the conditions attached to their non participation in FIFA competitions," read its statement"First, the proposals to sell off the major competitions had to be withdrawn and secondly, assurances have to be made that such attempts to disfigure the game in this way will never be made again."These conditions have not been met."Whilst UEFA welcomed the withdrawal of the plan last Saturday, it had slammed Infantino and his "shabby, backroom, opaque deal".Its tone had not changed in Thursday's statement."UEFA made it abundantly clear in its statement on Saturday that it has lost confidence in Gianni Infantino's presidency. That position holds," it said.Several UEFA member associations have withdrawn support for Infantino's bid to be re-elected to a fourth and final term in Rabat next March.A prominent critic, Norwegian football chief Lise Klaveness, is likely to pour more fuel on the fire when she holds a press conference on Friday.<h2>‘Abuse of power’</h2>Infantino was also criticised by usually supportive South American governing body CONMEBOL."The Council also unanimously expresses its concern regarding the repeated unilateral actions taken without resorting to dialogue or to the institutional mechanisms established to address situations of this nature," read its statement.CONMEBOL, though, said regarding Infantino's future it would not countenance anything other than a straight contest -- if a challenger comes forward by November 18 when nominations close -- in Rabat.There is a mechanism whereby an extraordinary FIFA congress can be called and a vote of no confidence in Infantino held.North and Central American football's governing body CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have both been critical of Infantino, but were yet to react to the latest developments.CONCACAF -- whose president Victor Montagliani is seen as a potential challenger -- had called for "a comprehensive reckoning with this presidency".FIFPRO, the players union, piled into Infantino over the plan calling it "a profound abuse of presidential power"."FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) is gone," it said in a statement."The abuse of power that produced it is not."Support did come Infantino's way on Thursday, however, as CAF "unanimously reconfirmed its support" for the FIFA president in a statement released following a meeting of its members.Several CAF members had already expressed their support for the Swiss official, who has been in power for 10 years. South Africa's sports minister Gayton McKenzie had urged African football to resist what he called the "public lynching" of Infantino.CONMEBOL said it was a shame the hugely successful staging of the World Cup -- the first with 48 teams and spread over three countries -- had had its thunder stolen by the events over the past week."The CONMEBOL Council calls for preserving the unity of the football family," it said.

The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday.

Pressure built on FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday over his cancelled plan to bring private finance into football's World Cup, with European governing body UEFA reiterating a threat to boycott tournaments. The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday but UEFA released a blunt statement in response. UEFA's initial threat issued last Thursday to boycott FIFA competitions is said to have been pivotal in forcing Infantino to shelve the private investment deal. Calls for him to step down had grown since he abandoned it last Saturday. FIFA said it could raise up to $4.2 billion based on a valuation of $20 billion for a new commercial subsidiary, called the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which it proposed would run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup. Although the abandonment of the proposal was one of UEFA's conditions for it to withdraw its threat, it said that not all of its demands had been met. "UEFA's associations were very clear about the conditions attached to their non participation in FIFA competitions," read its statement "First, the proposals to sell off the major competitions had to be withdrawn and secondly, assurances have to be made that such attempts to disfigure the game in this way will never be made again. "These conditions have not been met." Whilst UEFA welcomed the withdrawal of the plan last Saturday, it had slammed Infantino and his "shabby, backroom, opaque deal". Its tone had not changed in Thursday's statement. "UEFA made it abundantly clear in its statement on Saturday that it has lost confidence in Gianni Infantino's presidency. That position holds," it said. Several UEFA member associations have withdrawn support for Infantino's bid to be re-elected to a fourth and final term in Rabat next March. A prominent critic, Norwegian football chief Lise Klaveness, is likely to pour more fuel on the fire when she holds a press conference on Friday. ‘Abuse of power’ Infantino was also criticised by usually supportive South American governing body CONMEBOL. "The Council also unanimously expresses its concern regarding the repeated unilateral actions taken without resorting to dialogue or to the institutional mechanisms established to address situations of this nature," read its statement. CONMEBOL, though, said regarding Infantino's future it would not countenance anything other than a straight contest -- if a challenger comes forward by November 18 when nominations close -- in Rabat. There is a mechanism whereby an extraordinary FIFA congress can be called and a vote of no confidence in Infantino held. North and Central American football's governing body CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have both been critical of Infantino, but were yet to react to the latest developments. CONCACAF -- whose president Victor Montagliani is seen as a potential challenger -- had called for "a comprehensive reckoning with this presidency". FIFPRO, the players union, piled into Infantino over the plan calling it "a profound abuse of presidential power". "FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) is gone," it said in a statement. "The abuse of power that produced it is not." Support did come Infantino's way on Thursday, however, as CAF "unanimously reconfirmed its support" for the FIFA president in a statement released following a meeting of its members. Several CAF members had already expressed their support for the Swiss official, who has been in power for 10 years. South Africa's sports minister Gayton McKenzie had urged African football to resist what he called the "public lynching" of Infantino. CONMEBOL said it was a shame the hugely successful staging of the World Cup -- the first with 48 teams and spread over three countries -- had had its thunder stolen by the events over the past week. "The CONMEBOL Council calls for preserving the unity of the football family," it said.

The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday.

Pressure continues to mount on FIFA chief Infantino as UEFA maintains boycott threat, CONMEBOL criticises

Two young footballs fans died in clash with local police ahead of the Copa Libertadores football tournament match between Chile-based Colo Colo and Brazil's Fortaleza. The incident happened outside the Monumental Stadium in Santiago, Chile on Thursday (Apr 10).
The clash happened when over a 100 fans tried to forcefully enter the stadium- leading to police using the force to stop them. There are, however, conflicting reports about fans who died.
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The news agency AFP, citing those reports said that one of the fans was a 13-year-old boy while the other was an 18-year-old girl.
According to local prosecutor Francisco Morales, fans died after being crushed underneath a fence which collapsed during the altercation.
"What is known is that one of the fences crushed these two (people) and an investigation is underway into whether a police car was involved in the death," Morales told reporters about the incident.
The match was still supposed to kick-off until the crowd protested following which CONMEBOL, South American football governing body issued a statement on cancellation.
"CONMEBOL deeply regrets the death of two fans near the Monumental Stadium before the start of the match between Colo Colo and Fortaleza," the statement read. "We express our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones."
According to Santiago police general Alex Bahamondes an officer has been charged in the case and 'statements are being taken regarding the events.'
Meanwhile, Barbara Perez, the sister of the woman who died, alleged a police vehicle had driven over the fence after it fell on her relative.
"It drove over her and crushed her completely," Perez told reporters outside the hospital where her sister died.
"She arrived with no vital signs, she had a ticket in her hand and ID."

According to local prosecutor Francisco Morales, fans died after being crushed underneath a fence which collapsed during the altercation. Football Sports

Two young footballs fans died in clash with local police ahead of the Copa Libertadores football tournament match between Chile-based Colo Colo and Brazil's Fortaleza. The incident happened outside the Monumental Stadium in Santiago, Chile on Thursday (Apr 10). The clash happened when over a 100 fans tried to forcefully enter the stadium- leading to police using the force to stop them. There are, however, conflicting reports about fans who died. Also Read: Mohamed Salah pens new two-year Liverpool deal despite Saudi Pro League interest The news agency AFP, citing those reports said that one of the fans was a 13-year-old boy while the other was an 18-year-old girl. According to local prosecutor Francisco Morales, fans died after being crushed underneath a fence which collapsed during the altercation. "What is known is that one of the fences crushed these two (people) and an investigation is underway into whether a police car was involved in the death," Morales told reporters about the incident. The match was still supposed to kick-off until the crowd protested following which CONMEBOL, South American football governing body issued a statement on cancellation. "CONMEBOL deeply regrets the death of two fans near the Monumental Stadium before the start of the match between Colo Colo and Fortaleza," the statement read. "We express our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones." According to Santiago police general Alex Bahamondes an officer has been charged in the case and 'statements are being taken regarding the events.' Meanwhile, Barbara Perez, the sister of the woman who died, alleged a police vehicle had driven over the fence after it fell on her relative. "It drove over her and crushed her completely," Perez told reporters outside the hospital where her sister died. "She arrived with no vital signs, she had a ticket in her hand and ID."

Two football fans die in clash with police in Chile's Santiago ahead of Copa Libertadores game

Argentina captain Lionel Messi is ready to return to their line-up when they play Venezuela in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, but midfielder Alexis Mac Allister's availability is in doubt, manager Lionel Scaloni said. Argentina were boosted by the return of Messi for their World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia after the 37-year-old recovered from a right ankle injury, which he picked up during the Copa America final against Colombia in July.

Messi, who plays for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, had missed their qualifiers against Chile and Colombia. "Messi is fine. He played several games for his team in recent weeks, after not being in the last call-up, which was what we had agreed because he needed to recover and get more minutes," Scaloni told reporters on Tuesday. "Leo is training with the squad and is ready to be part of the team to play against Venezuela, who will be a great rival."

Liverpool's Mac Allister was replaced at half time during the club's 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League last weekend. "He (Mac Allister) is training separately. We'll see if he makes it to the first game," Scaloni said. "For now, he hasn't been able to join us, and, well, we'll make the decision if he's part of the squad or on the bench or if he plays on Thursday. But it's difficult for him to make it today. "I think we have to take care of him. He's a guy who has a lot of games under his belt and that's the situation today. We hope we don't lose any more players because the situation can change later."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/italian-defender-marco-curto-banned-for-10-matches-for-racially-abusing-south-korean-forward-hwang-hee-chan-765458">Italian defender Marco Curto banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan</a>

Argentina are set to face Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium of Maturin on Thursday, and with the team training at Inter Miami's training centre in Florida, Scaloni said his side was worried about Hurricane Milton.

Hurricane Milton barreled toward Florida's battered Gulf Coast as an enormous Category 5 storm on Tuesday, triggering massive traffic jams and fuel shortages as officials ordered more than 1 million people to flee before it slams into the Tampa Bay area.

"We work, we work calmly, the truth is that the training place is perfect, we work well, but it is always around this issue and especially when there is the security issue, it is a delicate issue," Scaloni said. "The match is important, but safety is much more important. So when you talk about wind, hurricanes, that it happens near, that it happens far away, that the airport closes, well, whether you like it or not, it worries you. "We are worried and we are waiting to see if it is true that we can leave tomorrow, they say that we will be able to leave in the afternoon. We don't have any certainties, but well, on that side we are worried."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi is ready to return to their line-up when they play Venezuela in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, but midfielder Alexis Mac Allister's availability is in doubt, manager Lionel Scaloni said.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi is ready to return to their line-up when they play Venezuela in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers, but midfielder Alexis Mac Allister's availability is in doubt, manager Lionel Scaloni said. Argentina were boosted by the return of Messi for their World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia after the 37-year-old recovered from a right ankle injury, which he picked up during the Copa America final against Colombia in July. Messi, who plays for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, had missed their qualifiers against Chile and Colombia. "Messi is fine. He played several games for his team in recent weeks, after not being in the last call-up, which was what we had agreed because he needed to recover and get more minutes," Scaloni told reporters on Tuesday. "Leo is training with the squad and is ready to be part of the team to play against Venezuela, who will be a great rival." Liverpool's Mac Allister was replaced at half time during the club's 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League last weekend. "He (Mac Allister) is training separately. We'll see if he makes it to the first game," Scaloni said. "For now, he hasn't been able to join us, and, well, we'll make the decision if he's part of the squad or on the bench or if he plays on Thursday. But it's difficult for him to make it today. "I think we have to take care of him. He's a guy who has a lot of games under his belt and that's the situation today. We hope we don't lose any more players because the situation can change later." Also read: Italian defender Marco Curto banned for 10 matches for racially abusing South Korean forward Hwang Hee-chan Argentina are set to face Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium of Maturin on Thursday, and with the team training at Inter Miami's training centre in Florida, Scaloni said his side was worried about Hurricane Milton. Hurricane Milton barreled toward Florida's battered Gulf Coast as an enormous Category 5 storm on Tuesday, triggering massive traffic jams and fuel shortages as officials ordered more than 1 million people to flee before it slams into the Tampa Bay area. "We work, we work calmly, the truth is that the training place is perfect, we work well, but it is always around this issue and especially when there is the security issue, it is a delicate issue," Scaloni said. "The match is important, but safety is much more important. So when you talk about wind, hurricanes, that it happens near, that it happens far away, that the airport closes, well, whether you like it or not, it worries you. "We are worried and we are waiting to see if it is true that we can leave tomorrow, they say that we will be able to leave in the afternoon. We don't have any certainties, but well, on that side we are worried." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

CONMEBOL WC qualifiers: Argentina skipper Lionel Messi ready to play Venezuela, Mac Allister doubtful

Next year's 48th edition of the Copa America, featuring 10 South American nations and six North American teams, will be held in 14 venues across 10 US states, organizers said on Monday. South American governing body CONMEBOL had already announced that the June 20 opener would be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with the final on July 14 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

On Monday CONMEBOL revealed that AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, NRG Stadium in Houston, State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona and Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, will host quarter-final matches. Semi-finals will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Other venues are Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Florida, and Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City. Group play will take place from June 20 through July 2. The quarter-finals will be held July 4-6, semi-finals July 9 and 10 and the third-place match on July 13.

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"According to the dynamics of the competition, two groups will play in the west and center of the country, and two groups in the east and center," CONMEBOL said in a statement. "The competition will move in an easterly direction, the quarter-finals will be played in the west and center, while the semi-final and final will take place in the east."

The tournament, typically held in South America, will serve as a tuneup for the US ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the United States is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada.

"The passion of football will run through this great country from east to west and from north to south, bringing excitement and fun to hundreds of thousands of fans at the venues and millions of spectators around the world," predicted Alejandro Dominguez, president of CONMEBOL and FIFA vice president. The draw for the tournament, which will see Argentina defending their title, is on Thursday.

Next year's 48th edition of the Copa America, featuring 10 South American nations and six North American teams, will be held in 14 venues across 10 US states, organizers said on Monday.

Next year's 48th edition of the Copa America, featuring 10 South American nations and six North American teams, will be held in 14 venues across 10 US states, organizers said on Monday. South American governing body CONMEBOL had already announced that the June 20 opener would be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with the final on July 14 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. On Monday CONMEBOL revealed that AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, NRG Stadium in Houston, State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona and Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, will host quarter-final matches. Semi-finals will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Other venues are Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Florida, and Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City. Group play will take place from June 20 through July 2. The quarter-finals will be held July 4-6, semi-finals July 9 and 10 and the third-place match on July 13. Also Read: Tyrese Haliburton triple-double helps Indiana Pacers reach semifinals of in-season tournament "According to the dynamics of the competition, two groups will play in the west and center of the country, and two groups in the east and center," CONMEBOL said in a statement. "The competition will move in an easterly direction, the quarter-finals will be played in the west and center, while the semi-final and final will take place in the east." The tournament, typically held in South America, will serve as a tuneup for the US ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the United States is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada. "The passion of football will run through this great country from east to west and from north to south, bringing excitement and fun to hundreds of thousands of fans at the venues and millions of spectators around the world," predicted Alejandro Dominguez, president of CONMEBOL and FIFA vice president. The draw for the tournament, which will see Argentina defending their title, is on Thursday.

CONMEBOL reveals names of 14 US cities as host for 2024 Copa America

CONMEBOL&nbsp;has fined Argentine team Racing Club and Uruguay's Nacional for racist behaviour by their fans during Copa Libertadores matches against Brazilian sides Flamengo and Internacional. Racing were fined $100,000 by&nbsp;CONMEBOL&nbsp;after their fans made racist gestures towards fans of the opposing team during a 1-1 draw with Flamengo on May 4.

Brazilian media reported that Nacional fans waved bananas at Internacional players and imitated monkeys during the 2-2 draw in the Brazilian city of Porto Alegre. CONMEBOL&nbsp;said in its disciplinary report that objects thrown by Nacional fans during the match hit five supporters of the home team.

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The governing body issued the same fine of $100,000 to Nacional for racist slurs and $10,000 for object-throwing. The issue of racism in soccer surfaced in Spain on Sunday when Real Madrid's Brazilian striker Vinicius Jr. reported racist slurs against him by fans during a La Liga game against Valencia.

CONMEBOL has fined Argentine team Racing Club and Uruguay's Nacional for racist behaviour by their fans during Copa Libertadores matches against Brazilian sides Flamengo and Internacional.

CONMEBOL has fined Argentine team Racing Club and Uruguay's Nacional for racist behaviour by their fans during Copa Libertadores matches against Brazilian sides Flamengo and Internacional. Racing were fined $100,000 by CONMEBOL after their fans made racist gestures towards fans of the opposing team during a 1-1 draw with Flamengo on May 4. Brazilian media reported that Nacional fans waved bananas at Internacional players and imitated monkeys during the 2-2 draw in the Brazilian city of Porto Alegre. CONMEBOL said in its disciplinary report that objects thrown by Nacional fans during the match hit five supporters of the home team. Also Read: LaLiga: Rodrygo's late-winner helps Vinicius-less Real Madrid beat Rayo Vallecano 2-1 The governing body issued the same fine of $100,000 to Nacional for racist slurs and $10,000 for object-throwing. The issue of racism in soccer surfaced in Spain on Sunday when Real Madrid's Brazilian striker Vinicius Jr. reported racist slurs against him by fans during a La Liga game against Valencia.

CONMEBOL fines Argentina's Racing and Uruguay's Nacional due to racist insults

Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations.&nbsp;

The 2024 edition will witness the participation of 10 teams from CONMEBOL while six teams from CONCACAF will also register their presence.&nbsp;

"More and better competitions and for football and its values to grow and strengthen throughout the hemisphere. Without a doubt, both confederations believe in big, and we will work with this orientation," said&nbsp;CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-death-of-possession-football-542811">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The death of possession football?</a>

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Organising the showpiece event will be the perfect opportunity for the US to have experience under its bag before hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada in 2026.&nbsp;

While teams in CONMEBOL will have to take the regular approach in the qualifying rounds to earn a place in the quadrennial event, the&nbsp;six CONCACAF national teams will qualify through the&nbsp;2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League competition.

"This is a partnership to support the ongoing growth of men's and women's football in CONCACAF and CONMEBOL, and will truly be of mutual benefit to both Confederations," said&nbsp;CONCACAF president&nbsp;Victor Montagliani.&nbsp;

This is not the first instance where the US has participated in Copa America. It has played in the tournament on four occasions previously, viz. 1993, 1995, 2007 and 2016. Meanwhile, Mexico has featured in the tournament 10 times.&nbsp;

Currently, Argentina are the holders of the Copa America trophy. La Albiceleste under Lionel Messi won the final in 2021, beating arch-rivals Brazil in a thrilling 1-0 contest at the iconic Maracana Stadium.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-lionel-messis-trophy-drought-with-argentina-ends-as-they-beat-brazil-397276">Read more:&nbsp;Copa America: Lionel Messi's trophy drought ends as Argentina beat Brazil</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations.

Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations. The 2024 edition will witness the participation of 10 teams from CONMEBOL while six teams from CONCACAF will also register their presence. "More and better competitions and for football and its values to grow and strengthen throughout the hemisphere. Without a doubt, both confederations believe in big, and we will work with this orientation," said CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez. WATCH | Gravitas: The death of possession football? × Organising the showpiece event will be the perfect opportunity for the US to have experience under its bag before hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada in 2026. While teams in CONMEBOL will have to take the regular approach in the qualifying rounds to earn a place in the quadrennial event, the six CONCACAF national teams will qualify through the 2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League competition. "This is a partnership to support the ongoing growth of men's and women's football in CONCACAF and CONMEBOL, and will truly be of mutual benefit to both Confederations," said CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani. This is not the first instance where the US has participated in Copa America. It has played in the tournament on four occasions previously, viz. 1993, 1995, 2007 and 2016. Meanwhile, Mexico has featured in the tournament 10 times. Currently, Argentina are the holders of the Copa America trophy. La Albiceleste under Lionel Messi won the final in 2021, beating arch-rivals Brazil in a thrilling 1-0 contest at the iconic Maracana Stadium. Read more: Copa America: Lionel Messi's trophy drought ends as Argentina beat Brazil (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

United States to host 2024 Copa America with 16 teams

South America's largest football tournament, the Copa America, was moved Monday to Brazil after a Covid-19 surge in Argentina and social unrest in Colombia saw the co-hosts stripped of the right to host the event.

With two weeks to kickoff, South America's CONMEBOL football federation tweeted that "The CONMEBOL Copa America 2021 will be played in Brazil!" and the June 13-July 10 dates were maintained.

CONMEBOL is expected to announce the venues and dates of matches in the coming hours.

Brazil hosted the last Copa America, in 2019.

Originally scheduled for last year, the Copa was postponed by 12 months due to the coronavirus epidemic.

New host Brazil is one of the countries in the world worst affected by the outbreak, with the second-highest death toll of over 460,000 so far and more than 16.5 million cases.

It was to have been the first time in its history that the tournament would be co-hosted by two countries, Argentina and Colombia.

But ten days ago, CONMEBOL stripped Colombia of its duties amid street protests that were met with a heavy-handed police response that drew international condemnation. More than a month into the unrest, dozens of people have died.

On Sunday, CONMEBOL also stripped Argentina of hosting rights in the context of a record coronavirus surge, with more than 77,000 deaths in the pandemic to date and nearly 3.8 million infections.

South America's largest football tournament, the Copa America, was moved Monday to Brazil after a Covid-19 surge in Argentina and social unrest in Colombia saw the co-hosts stripped of the right to host the event.

South America's largest football tournament, the Copa America, was moved Monday to Brazil after a Covid-19 surge in Argentina and social unrest in Colombia saw the co-hosts stripped of the right to host the event. With two weeks to kickoff, South America's CONMEBOL football federation tweeted that "The CONMEBOL Copa America 2021 will be played in Brazil!" and the June 13-July 10 dates were maintained. CONMEBOL is expected to announce the venues and dates of matches in the coming hours. Brazil hosted the last Copa America, in 2019. Originally scheduled for last year, the Copa was postponed by 12 months due to the coronavirus epidemic. New host Brazil is one of the countries in the world worst affected by the outbreak, with the second-highest death toll of over 460,000 so far and more than 16.5 million cases. It was to have been the first time in its history that the tournament would be co-hosted by two countries, Argentina and Colombia. But ten days ago, CONMEBOL stripped Colombia of its duties amid street protests that were met with a heavy-handed police response that drew international condemnation. More than a month into the unrest, dozens of people have died. On Sunday, CONMEBOL also stripped Argentina of hosting rights in the context of a record coronavirus surge, with more than 77,000 deaths in the pandemic to date and nearly 3.8 million infections.

Football: Copa America 2021 moved to Brazil - CONMEBOL

The South American&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Confederation (CONMEBOL)&nbsp;said on Sunday (May 30) 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 between ten South American nations was scheduled to be held in Argentina and Colombia between June 13 and July 10 but Colombia was removed as co-host on May 20 and Argentina has now followed due to what CONMEBOL said was "the present circumstances."

CONMEBOL did not disclose the nature of the circumstances that led to the decision but Argentina is currently suffering from a surge in COVID-19 cases.

"CONMEBOL is analyzing offers from other countries that have shown interest in hosting the continental tournament," it said in a short statement. "Updates will be announced soon."

Sunday's decision was announced shortly before 11 p.m. in Argentina and comes as yet another blow to a tournament that was held over from 2020 due to the pandemic.

This year's Copa America was to be the first featuring joint hosts but Colombia was removed as co-hosts after a wave of protests demanding social and economic change spread across the country.

CONMEBOL said the 15 games scheduled for Colombia would be moved either to Argentina, which was due to host the other 13 matches, or somewhere else.

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said on Sunday (May 30) 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 South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said on Sunday (May 30) 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 between ten South American nations was scheduled to be held in Argentina and Colombia between June 13 and July 10 but Colombia was removed as co-host on May 20 and Argentina has now followed due to what CONMEBOL said was "the present circumstances." CONMEBOL did not disclose the nature of the circumstances that led to the decision but Argentina is currently suffering from a surge in COVID-19 cases. "CONMEBOL is analyzing offers from other countries that have shown interest in hosting the continental tournament," it said in a short statement. "Updates will be announced soon." Sunday's decision was announced shortly before 11 p.m. in Argentina and comes as yet another blow to a tournament that was held over from 2020 due to the pandemic. This year's Copa America was to be the first featuring joint hosts but Colombia was removed as co-hosts after a wave of protests demanding social and economic change spread across the country. CONMEBOL said the 15 games scheduled for Colombia would be moved either to Argentina, which was due to host the other 13 matches, or somewhere else.

Football: Argentina no longer hosting Copa America: CONMEBOL

The South American Soccer Confederation (CONMEBOL) announced Thursday that their appeals committee dismissed the appeal filed by Boca Juniors on November 30, following decisions after the aggression against some of the team's players before the second leg final of the Copa Libertadores.

The Boca Juniors team appealed the ruling issued by the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal on November 29, which rejected Boca's request for points for the second leg of the final against River Plate, which could not be played on November 24 due to acts of violence outside the River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires.

In this Thursday's announcement, CONMEBOL not only rejected Boca's appeal but also reaffirmed the decision of their Disciplinary Tribunal.

The rulings and appeals at CONMEBOL began on November 24, when violent altercations of the supporters of River Plate to the bus and players of Boca caused the suspension of the game and its postponement, initially for 24 hours.&nbsp;

On November 25 the match was not played either and the two clubs were summoned to a meeting in Asuncion (Paraguay) to decide the final date.

CONMEBOL decided on 27 November that the final would be played on either November 8 or 9 and on a neutral field, a decision that did not please Boca, who then requested the suspension of the match, their proclamation as champions and the disqualification of River Plate.

Two days later, on the 29th of last month, the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal dismissed Boca's claim and ordered the match to be played.

Finally, the meeting between the two Argentine teams will be on November 9 at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, in Madrid, by the decision of CONMEBOL.

The South American Soccer Confederation (CONMEBOL) announced Thursday that their appeals committee dismissed the appeal filed by Boca Juniors on November 30, following decisions after the aggression against some of the team's players before the second leg final of the Copa Libertadores.

The South American Soccer Confederation (CONMEBOL) announced Thursday that their appeals committee dismissed the appeal filed by Boca Juniors on November 30, following decisions after the aggression against some of the team's players before the second leg final of the Copa Libertadores. The Boca Juniors team appealed the ruling issued by the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal on November 29, which rejected Boca's request for points for the second leg of the final against River Plate, which could not be played on November 24 due to acts of violence outside the River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires. In this Thursday's announcement, CONMEBOL not only rejected Boca's appeal but also reaffirmed the decision of their Disciplinary Tribunal. The rulings and appeals at CONMEBOL began on November 24, when violent altercations of the supporters of River Plate to the bus and players of Boca caused the suspension of the game and its postponement, initially for 24 hours. On November 25 the match was not played either and the two clubs were summoned to a meeting in Asuncion (Paraguay) to decide the final date. CONMEBOL decided on 27 November that the final would be played on either November 8 or 9 and on a neutral field, a decision that did not please Boca, who then requested the suspension of the match, their proclamation as champions and the disqualification of River Plate. Two days later, on the 29th of last month, the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal dismissed Boca's claim and ordered the match to be played. Finally, the meeting between the two Argentine teams will be on November 9 at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, in Madrid, by the decision of CONMEBOL.

CONMEBOL rejects appeal filed by Boca after Copa Libertadores altercations

South American football administrators Conmebol said on Tuesday that the postponed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=copa">Copa Libertadores</a> final second leg between fierce local rivals <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=River+Plate">River Plate</a> and Boca Juniors would be played outside Argentina.

Following a meeting with the two Argentine clubs' presidents in Asuncion, Conmebol said the match, to take place on "December 8 or 9," would be at an as yet undecided venue.

The original second-leg clash between the two Buenos Aires clubs at the weekend was postponed after Boca players were injured in an attack on their team bus by River fans with pepper spray, stones and sticks.

Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez told reporters that "the final cannot be played in Argentina."

A Conmebol statement moments earlier said that due to the weekend "violence... that put players, officials and fans at risk... it would not be prudent to play the final in" Argentina.

The tie is delicately poised following a 2-2 draw at Boca's Bombonera home just over two weeks ago.

The second leg had to be postponed after Boca players suffered cuts from broken glass and from smoke inhalation when their bus was attacked by River fans on the way to the Monumental Stadium in the Argentine capital on Saturday.

It was originally postponed by 24 hours before Conmebol announced on Sunday that it was being suspended indefinitely ahead of Tuesday's meeting at the body's headquarters in the Paraguayan capital.

Boca's president Daniel Angelici petitioned the continent's governing body to award them the trophy, a move his River counterpart Rodolfo D'Onofrio branded "shameful."&nbsp;

Some potential final venues have already expressed an interest in hosting the derby dubbed a "superclasico", and the most important in Argentine club football history, as it pits the two most popular teams in the country in the continent's most prestigious final.

The group that runs the Atletico Mineiro stadium in Brazilian city Belo Horizonte offered on Tuesday to host the match.

That came a day after the Italian city of Genoa cited cultural links between the city and Italian immigrants to Argentina in the early 20th century as it suggested the Marassi stadium as a potential venue.

South American football administrators Conmebol said on Tuesday that the postponed Copa Libertadores final second leg between fierce local rivals River Plate and Boca Juniors would be played outside Argentina.

South American football administrators Conmebol said on Tuesday that the postponed Copa Libertadores final second leg between fierce local rivals River Plate and Boca Juniors would be played outside Argentina. Following a meeting with the two Argentine clubs' presidents in Asuncion, Conmebol said the match, to take place on "December 8 or 9," would be at an as yet undecided venue. The original second-leg clash between the two Buenos Aires clubs at the weekend was postponed after Boca players were injured in an attack on their team bus by River fans with pepper spray, stones and sticks. Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez told reporters that "the final cannot be played in Argentina." A Conmebol statement moments earlier said that due to the weekend "violence... that put players, officials and fans at risk... it would not be prudent to play the final in" Argentina. The tie is delicately poised following a 2-2 draw at Boca's Bombonera home just over two weeks ago. The second leg had to be postponed after Boca players suffered cuts from broken glass and from smoke inhalation when their bus was attacked by River fans on the way to the Monumental Stadium in the Argentine capital on Saturday. It was originally postponed by 24 hours before Conmebol announced on Sunday that it was being suspended indefinitely ahead of Tuesday's meeting at the body's headquarters in the Paraguayan capital. Boca's president Daniel Angelici petitioned the continent's governing body to award them the trophy, a move his River counterpart Rodolfo D'Onofrio branded "shameful." Some potential final venues have already expressed an interest in hosting the derby dubbed a "superclasico", and the most important in Argentine club football history, as it pits the two most popular teams in the country in the continent's most prestigious final. The group that runs the Atletico Mineiro stadium in Brazilian city Belo Horizonte offered on Tuesday to host the match. That came a day after the Italian city of Genoa cited cultural links between the city and Italian immigrants to Argentina in the early 20th century as it suggested the Marassi stadium as a potential venue.

Copa Libertadores final to be played outside Argentina

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