Argentina Lose 2021 Copa America Hosting Rights
With less than two weeks to the start of the 2021 Copa America, Argentina have been taken off as hosts for the competition.
A sharp rise in coronavirus cases in the country has left the South American Football Confederation(CONMEBOL) considering their options, with the 10-team tournament set to run from June 13 to July 10.
Originally, Argentina were supposed to co-host the tournament with Colombia, but the latter was stripped of the hosting rights on May 20 as a result of political unrest in the country.
Colombians had risen against the ruling government in recent months as a result of the introduction of controversial taxes, poor wages and a lack of opportunities for young people in the county.
Most Argentines had already opined that it would be unwise to host the Copa America in the country in the current circumstances.
"CONMEBOL informs that in view of the present circumstances it has been decided to suspend the development of the Copa America in Argentina," a statement read on Sunday.
"CONMEBOL is analysing offers from other countries that have shown interest in hosting the continental tournament.”
“Updates will be announced soon."
Like most international tournaments from the past year, the Copa America had to be moved to 2021 because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Brazil are the defending champions of the competition.
