Copa America 2024 expands squad size to 26 players, follows Euros to increase strength of contingent

The squad size for Copa America, set to be played between June 20 and July 14, was increased from 23 to 26, statement from the tournament announced on Thursday.

Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, is the defending Copa America champion and will start its title defence against on June 21. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

The squad size for Copa America, set to be played between June 20 and July 14, was increased from 23 to 26, CONMEBOL, the confederation organising the tournament, announced on Thursday.

“Regarding the number of players on the roster, the decision is that each team may register up to a maximum of 26 players in the competition (on the roster), maintaining a total of 50 individuals in the delegation covered by the event’s organization (accommodation, meals, transportation, etc., according to the financial regime and prize structure outlined in Chapter 17 of the Competition Regulations),” CONMEBOL said in a statement.

“All players (up to 26 players) must be included in the Provisional List submitted by May 5, 2024 (6:00 p.m. Paraguay time), according to Article 58 of the Regulations.”

The representatives of CONMEBOL, the organiser of the tournament, agreed on the decision at the FIFA congress in Bangkok, Thailand, treading the path of squad expansion in the European Championship.

Copa America, started in 1916, is the oldest operational continental tournament in the world and has determined the champions of South America over the years. Last year, however, CONCACAF, the football governing body of North America, combined with CONMEBOL, to host the tournament together.

As a result, the 48th edition of the tournament will have 16 teams, including six from North America. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, is the defending Copa America champion and will start its title defence against on June 21.