Copa America becomes the second major footballing competition to be delayed followed by UEFA Euro. The 2020 Copa America was to be held in the summer from June 21 to July 12 in Argentina and Colombia. 

The spread of the deadly Coronavirus has forced CONMEBOL officials to push the tournament to next year to try and give time for the fight against the pandemic.

'It wasn't easy to take this decision but we must safeguard at all times the health of our players and all those who form part of the big South American football family. Have no doubts that the oldest international tournament in the world will be back stronger than ever in 2021.' said president of CONMEBOL

Brazil won the tournament in 2019, defeating Peru in the final, and the 2020 edition was designed to re calibrate the tournament so it was held every four years.The rescheduled tournament is due to be held from June 11 to July 11, 2021.

The decision to push back the competition by one year has been welcomed by all 12 nations taking part. The two invited teams for the competition are Qatar and Australia.