USA Hosts Copa America Again: Financial Gains, Organizational Trials Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Posted : 20 June 2024

Eight years ago, the United States hosted the Copa America, an unusual choice since the tournament traditionally involves South American nations. This shift occurred because 2016 marked the tournament's centenary, and both the American soccer association and CONMEBOL, South America's football governing body, saw financial potential in hosting the event in the USA.

Thus, the tournament included ten South American teams and six from CONCACAF, the North American confederation, creating a surprisingly successful event. With 1.48 million tickets sold and generating $80 million in profits, the tournament, highlighted by Chile's victory over Argentina in the final, was memorable.

Fast forward eight years, what was meant to be a one-time event is happening again in the USA. When South America couldn't secure a host for this year's tournament, CONCACAF extended an offer to the USA, which accepted.

This agreement included six spots for CONCACAF teams and provided the USA a chance to assess its readiness for the upcoming World Cup. Economically and organizationally, the event aligns well with American interests, hinting that this arrangement might become a regular occurrence. The significant television markets in the US and Mexico further justify this collaboration.

The Copa America is set to commence tonight across 12 cities and 14 stadiums in the USA, many of which will also host World Cup matches. Featuring stars like Lionel Messi from Inter Miami, the tournament will be broadcast nationwide.

There are two main uncertainties: the performance of the US team and the level of interest from non-Latino Americans. Concerns about the Major League Soccer (MLS) continuing its season concurrently, as decided by Commissioner Don Gerber, add to the skepticism about the tournament's overall impact.

The performance of the US team is crucial, given they have an automatic spot in the next World Cup. The Copa America will be their most significant competition in the lead-up. Head coach Greg Berhalter has assembled a strong squad, with 23 out of 26 players based in Europe.

Despite the optimism, recent results have been disappointing, such as the 5-1 defeat to Colombia. This adds pressure to advance past the group stage, as failure could have significant repercussions for Berhalter and the team's World Cup preparations.

Eight of the 14 stadiums used in Copa America will also be venues for the 2026 World Cup, serving as a crucial rehearsal. However, ticket prices present a challenge, with high costs potentially deterring attendance. For example, a ticket for Argentina’s opening match against Canada costs $307, and the average ticket price is $283.

This contrasts with South American tournaments, where CONMEBOL manages all aspects, including ticket sales. In the USA, ticket sales are managed by different entities, leading to dynamic pricing and higher costs, illustrating some drawbacks of hosting major tournaments in the US.

USA Hosts Copa America Again: Financial Gains, Organizational Trials Ahead of 2026 World Cup

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