'Insanity': Copa América in Brazil Could Aggravate Third Covid's Wave and Lead to a 'Melting Pot' of Variants

For epidemiologists, an event in the country could lead to the collapse of the already saturated health system

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After the refusal of Argentina and Colombia, Brazil offered to host the Copa América from June 13th to July 10th this year. The soccer tournament brings together teams from South American countries and is expected to attract thousands of people to the country, including players, coaching staff and fans, although the games are closed to the public.

Epidemiologists interviewed by BBC News Brasil defined it as "crime", "insanity" and "paranoia" if the country goes ahead with the possibility of promoting the championship in the country.

(FILES) In this file photo taken on July 07, 2019, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro holds the Copa America trophy as members of the Brazilian national team celebrates after winning the title by defeating Peru in the final match of the football tournament at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Carl DE SOUZA / AFP) - AFP

The announcement that Brazil had been chosen to host the competition was made on Monday morning (31) by Conmebol (South American Football Confederation).

Despite this, the minister of the Civil House, Luiz Eduardo Ramos, said that there is still no confirmation that the country will host the Copa América. According to him, the decision will be announced this Tuesday (1).

Translated by Kiratiana Freelon

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