CONMEBOL has decided to stop Colombia hosting Copa America 2021 this summer.
The decision comes following weeks of unrest, with protests taking place against the government.
Some of the demonstrations have affected Copa Libertadores matches, such as River Plate’s 1-1 draw with Atletico Junior, with tear gas used to disperse protestors causing discomfort for the players on the pitch.
Another match between Atletico Nacional and Club Nacional was delayed by an hour due to protests in areas surrounding the stadium.
A report into the safety of travel in the country by the US state department has reached a worrying verdict, forcing Conmebol into action.
And the South American football governing body has now decided it is “impossible” for Colombia to host, so some matches will have to be moved.
A statement read, via Goal, “We guarantee the realisation of the 2021 Copa America and in the coming days will inform on the relocation of those games that were to be held in Colombia.”
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Argentina, which was planned to host the Copa America alongside Colombia, could now take on all of the matches.
Chile and Paraguay have also expressed interest in being joint hosts, and with less than a month until kick-off a decision will have to be made soon.
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Argentina last hosted the tournament in 2011 when they suffered a penalty shoot-out defeat to eventual champions Uruguay.
Lionel Messi is still on the hunt for his first international trophy and should be buoyed by home advantage.
Brazil will be keen to defend their 2019 title however, and at this stage Conmebol will just be happy if the competition goes ahead.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
