South America’s flagship international tournament won’t return until 2028, but the early groundwork is already generating plenty of discussion among fans hoping to see Argentina defend their crown for a third straight time.
Where Things Stand After 2024
Argentina’s extra-time win over Colombia in the 2024 final delivered a record 16th Copa América title, breaking their tie with Uruguay atop the tournament’s all-time list. That victory came on the back of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph, cementing this generation as one of the most decorated in the sport’s history.
Where Will It Be Held?
No host has been officially confirmed for 2028, but reports consistently point toward a third United States hosting in five editions, following 2016’s centenary edition and the expanded 2024 tournament. Ecuador, next in CONMEBOL’s traditional rotation, remains a talking point, while Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay have been floated as a potential joint bid to test infrastructure ahead of their shared role in the 2030 World Cup centenary matches.
The Format Fans Can Expect
- All 10 CONMEBOL nations automatically eligible, as always
- Guest invitations, likely from CONCACAF again if the U.S. hosts, following the successful 16-team format used in 2024
- A June–July window, the tournament’s traditional slot, positioned around the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics
The Contenders
Argentina head in as favourites once again, but Brazil’s five World Cup titles and hunger to reclaim continental bragging rights make them the obvious challengers. Colombia, runners-up in 2024, and a talented Uruguay side round out the group of nations most likely to contest the trophy. Expect plenty of overlap with players also featuring prominently in football’s biggest rivalries coverage, given how personal the Argentina-Brazil and Argentina-Uruguay fixtures have become.
Why It’s Worth Tracking Early
With qualification pathways and hosting decisions still to be finalised, Copa América 2028 remains one of the more fluid stories in international football heading toward the back half of this decade.