It’s official.
The Copa America – one of the most prestigious and widely viewed sporting events in the world – is coming to the City Beautiful in June 2016.
For the first time in its history, the world’s oldest international soccer competition – which determines the continental champion of South America – won’t be held on South American soil as the Copa celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Featuring an expanded field of 16 teams, with 10 from CONMEBOL and six from CONCACAF, the commemorative tournament is scheduled to occur from June 3-26 in 10 cities across the United States, showcasing some of the brightest stars in international soccer – such as Lionel Messi, Neymar, Alexis Sanchez, James Rodriguez and many others.
With that being said, let’s take a more extensive look at what is coming our way next summer.
Why is Copa America so significant?
Copa America is the South American version of the Euros, which determines the best European team on the continent. Held every four years, aside from this year’s special edition of the tournament, the Copa is arguably the most passionately supported soccer tournament in the world, behind the highly touted FIFA World Cup.
Which teams will play in the Copa America?
This year’s Copa will feature 16 teams, rather than the typical 12 team format. CONMEBOL – the South American Football Confederation – will be represented by all 10 of its nations. With nine World Cups won by South American teams (Brazil – 5, Uruguay – 2, Argentina – 2), it is considered one of the strongest confederations in the world.
The remaining six invitations will be extended to teams from CONCACAF – the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football. Four CONCACAF teams have been finalized to participate, with the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica and Jamaica already earning qualification. The final two berths will be decided via a playoff in the near future.
Who are the defending champions?
After finishing runners-up on four occasions, Chile claimed its’ first-ever Copa America championship in 2015 – defeating four-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi and Argentina.
Who has won the most Copa America Championships?
Uruguay is leading the charge for Copa titles, winning an incredible 15 first place trophies – placing them one ahead of Argentina. Brazil ranks third with eight, while Venezuela and Ecuador are the only South American teams without a Copa America championship.
Has a non-South American team ever won Copa?
Mexico has finished the highest for a non CONEMBOL team, claiming second place on two occasions (1993 and 2001). The United States’ went as far as fourth place in 1995, before taking a 12-year break due to scheduling conflicts with Major League Soccer.
