All the winners of the Copa América since 1916
The CONMEBOL Copa América, originally known as the South American Football Championship until 1975, stands as the premier men's football tournament in South America and the oldest ongoing continental football competition in the world.
Since its inception in 1916, the tournament has not only celebrated South American football prowess but also expanded its horizons to include teams from North America and Asia since the 1990s.
The inaugural competition was hosted in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where Uruguay clinched their first of fifteen titles, marking the beginning of a historic rivalry between the two Latin nations as they share the top spot as record holders.
Over the years, Copa América has been hosted 47 times, with its 48th edition scheduled to take place in the United States from June 20 to July 14. The United States made history by becoming the first non-South American country to host the event during its centennial edition in 2016.
As the defending champions, the Albiceleste, led by Lionel Messi, are eager to add another title to their illustrious history. Messi, fresh off a historic World Cup victory in Qatar, aims to solidify his legacy as the greatest Argentine footballer, surpassing even the great Diego Maradona. On the other hand, Brazil, with hopes pinned on early Balon d'Or favourite Vinicius Junior, is also vying for glory in 2024.
Including record holders, Argentina and Uruguay, only eight nations have lifted the coveted trophy in the competition's 108-year history.
Here is a look at all the winners of Copa América since its inception:
- Argentina: 15 titles (1921, 1925, 1927, 1929, 1937, 1941, 1945, 1946, 1947, 1955, 1957, 1959, 1991, 1993, 2021)
- Uruguay: 15 titles (1916, 1917, 1920, 1923, 1924, 1926, 1935, 1942, 1956, 1959, 1967, 1983, 1987, 1995, 2011)
- Brazil: 9 titles (1919, 1922, 1949, 1989, 1997, 1999, 2004, 2007, 2019)
- Paraguay: 2 titles (1953, 1979)
- Chile: 2 titles (2015, 2016)
- Peru: 2 titles (1939, 1975)
- Bolivia: 1 title (1963)
- Colombia: 1 title (2001)
As the tournament prepares to return to the United States, fans worldwide eagerly anticipate whether; Messi's magic will continue to dazzle, Brazil's samba flair will reclaim the top spot, or any of the familiar foes will look to spoil the party.
