WINNING the Copa América is a special achievement – and the money that comes with it makes the triumph even better.
Angel Di Maria led Argentina to a historic victory over Brazil during the 2021 final.
And it was a result that saw Lionel Messi lift his first international silver medal before going on to win the World Cup the following year.
Argentina pocketed a total sum of US$11 million for their incredible triumph in the most recent edition of the Copa América.
But this time there is even more money at stake.
What is the prize money for Copa América 2024?
CONMEBOL will pay a total of US$72 million and each country will receive US$2 million just for qualification.
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And that’s more than double the 2021 campaign, when Argentina won.
Here is the breakdown of the semi-final stage:
- Winners: $16 million
- Runner-up: US$7 million
- 3rd place: US$5 million
- 4th place: US$4 million
When is the Copa América 2024?
The Copa América will start in Thursday, June 20th before completing Friday, July 14th.
But due to UK, the tournament will start in Friday, June 21st and end in Saturday, July 15 due to the time difference.
Argentina x Canada, at the Mercedez-Benz Stadium, in Atlanta, will open the tournament.
And it’s scheduled to start at 8pm ET/1am BST.
Will this be Lionel Messi’s last tournament?
Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez does not consider Copa América 2024 to be Lionel Messi’s last tournament.
The Manchester United defender said: “He is very calm, more than anything he is enjoying everyday life. It’s beautiful to be here, we all have a great relationship.
“When we are here we are very happy. We feel at home, which is important. [as his last tournament with Argentina.] We see him happy and at an impressive level. That’s what I can tell you.
“Let’s take advantage of him and see what happens next. I think what he’s doing now is very important. And for everyone, not just for Argentina, because in the end Leo plays for those who like football. But someday [his retirement] will happen.”
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story