U.S. Aims to Host 2028 Copa América Amid Ongoing Discussions
The Copa América could make a return to the United States in 2028, potentially marking the third major international tournament hosted in the country within a four-year span. Ongoing discussions between the football confederations CONCACAF and CONEMBOL, which represent North America and South America respectively, are exploring the possibility of staging the tournament on U.S. soil. According to a report from The Athletic, Argentina and Ecuador are also under consideration as potential co-hosts.
If an agreement is reached, the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) would participate again, having previously competed in the 2016 and 2024 tournaments by virtue of being hosts. Historically, the USMNT has been invited to the Copa América on several occasions, including 1993, 1995, and 2007 in Ecuador, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
Scheduling Challenges and Prospects
Hosting the Copa América in 2028 poses a unique set of challenges, particularly as it coincides with the summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles, which will begin on July 14, 2028. This overlap could present logistical difficulties, especially since the Copa América final took place on the same date in 2024. The Olympic soccer tournament traditionally features under-23 players, with three exceptions for older players, which may mitigate some conflicts for national teams.
While the tournament’s scheduling overlaps with the Olympics, the Major League Soccer (MLS) landscape will have changed significantly by 2028. Starting in 2027, MLS plans to adjust its schedule to align with top European leagues, meaning there would be no MLS matches during the Copa América, unlike in 2024.
If the U.S. successfully hosts the tournament, it will represent a significant achievement in American soccer, adding to the growing sports infrastructure and international reputation established through recent events, including the FIFA Club World Cup.
USMNT’s Drive for Redemption
The USMNT’s performance during the last Copa América was disappointing, as they became the first host nation to exit in the group stage. Losses to Panama and Uruguay highlighted issues under former head coach Gregg Berhalter. The team’s exit was a pivotal moment, prompting U.S. Soccer to part ways with Berhalter and appoint Mauricio Pochettino as the new manager.
Despite a rocky start, the USMNT has shown improvement under Pochettino’s guidance. A notable victory against Uruguay in 2025 provided a semblance of revenge for their earlier Copa América performance. As the team looks toward the future, they are eager to seize the opportunity to rewrite history and make a strong showing at the 2028 tournament.
The potential return of Copa América to the United States not only underscores the country’s growing influence in international soccer but also highlights the excitement surrounding future competitions. Both fans and players are likely to embrace the opportunity to showcase their talents on a grand stage, further elevating the profile of soccer in the U.S.
