The Mexican national team could find itself beyond the CONCACAF borders as it chases a berth for the 2030 World Cup slated for Spain‑Portugal‑Morocco. Sources say the 2028 Copa América will return to the United States, a venue that recently hosted the 2025 Club World Cup and the upcoming FIFA World Cup 206, with Mexico likely invited.
It wouldn’t be the first time the U.S. hosts South America’s oldest tournament. The 2016 Copa América Centenario debuted there, and the competition returned in 2024. South American and U.S. officials are now fine‑tuning details for a third northern edition.
Analysts assess the United States’ chances of landing the 2028 Copa América.
The United States is courting more football events to boost domestic interest. While CONMEBOL hasn’t issued a final word, the North American market looks like the clear favorite over South American bids. Early proposals from Argentina and Ecuador have lost steam against the commercial and logistical pull of the U.S.
Mexico’s invitation prospects are also under close review.
One potential broadcast partner is Univisión, which reaches the entire American continent. The network is reportedly pushing for Mexico’s inclusion to secure a production deal.
The Mexican national team guarantees strong TV ratings in the United States, both in Spanish and English, no matter where it plays. If the confederations strike a deal with U.S. officials, a return for Mexico to the Copa América after its 2024 outing looks highly probable.
- 2024: United States
- 2021: Brazil
- 2019: Brazil
- 2016: United States
- 2015: Chile
- 2011: Argentina
- 2007: Venezuela
- 2004: Peru
- 2001: Colombia
Will the competition format be reshaped for a 20‑team Copa América in 2028?
For my money, expanding the tournament from 16 to 20 sides will revitalize South America’s flagship event, cementing a permanent spot for Mexico and Canada among the participants.
A key hurdle is avoiding a clash with the Los Angeles Olympics slated for June‑July, the same window as the Copa América. Organisers propose concentrating matches on the East Coast—cities like Miami, Orlando, New Jersey and Atlanta—leaving the West Coast free for Olympic duties.