South American football’s governing body, CONMEBOL, has formally begun deliberations over the host nation for the 2028 Copa América, reigniting discussions around timing, location, and commercial viability. Early indications suggest that the United States has once again emerged as the front-runner, having previously hosted the prestigious continental tournament in 2016 and 2024 with considerable organisational success.
These deliberations come amid broader strategic talks between CONMEBOL and FIFA concerning the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Notably, CONMEBOL has proposed an ambitious expansion of the tournament from 48 to 64 teams, alongside a plan to stage 18 matches across Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Within this wider context of global football restructuring, attention has naturally shifted to the future of Copa América and its next host.
According to a report published by The Athletic, the possibility of Copa América returning to the United States in 2028 is being seriously considered. Fresh discussions are reportedly under way between CONMEBOL and CONCACAF, driven by the United States’ proven track record, vast commercial market, and world-class sporting infrastructure. With preparations already in motion for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and upcoming Olympic events, the country is rapidly consolidating its position as a major hub for international football.
However, the United States is not the sole contender. Ecuador and Argentina have also entered the conversation. Ecuador’s bid, though politically supported, faces logistical challenges. The President of the Ecuadorian Football Federation, Francisco Egas, previously stated that the nation’s current infrastructure would be insufficient to host the tournament without substantial investment. “Everything depends on how much the country is willing to invest,” he remarked, adding that existing facilities were inadequate for an event of such magnitude.
Despite these concerns, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa renewed interest in 2024, publicly asserting that Ecuador is a safe and capable host. In a video address, he stated confidently, “We are not incapable. Ecuador can host the Copa América.”
Meanwhile, Argentina remains a strong and credible candidate. The country boasts several international-standard stadiums across cities such as Buenos Aires, La Plata, Córdoba, Mendoza, San Juan, and Santiago del Estero. Argentina last hosted the Copa América in 2011, and recent discussions have also explored the possibility of a joint bid with Uruguay and Paraguay, aligning preparations with the centenary 2030 World Cup.
Ultimately, when financial capacity, infrastructure readiness, security, and experience are weighed collectively, the United States currently appears to hold a decisive advantage in the race to host Copa América 2028
Potential Hosts for Copa América 2028
| Country | Strengths | Challenges |
| United States | Proven hosting record, large market, modern infrastructure | High commercial focus |
| Argentina | Rich football heritage, multiple stadiums | Economic constraints |
| Ecuador | Political backing, growing interest | Infrastructure limitations |