Amantes de la pecosa. Historia y escándalos de la Copa América

Abstract

In this interview, sports journalist and author Luis Alfonso Avendaño details the process of creating his book, which covers the 100-year history of the Copa América. He explains that his research included visits to CONMEBOL headquarters in Paraguay, from where he traces the tournament's evolution and the succession of its presidents. Avendaño offers a critical view of systemic corruption in South American football, linking it to the management of former officials like Nicolás Leoz and to scandals like "FIFA Gate." He also analyzes the Centennial edition (2016), explaining that the United States was chosen as the host due to purely economic reasons. He shares anecdotes from past editions, highlighting the organization of Peru 2004, the infrastructure of Venezuela 2007, and Colombia's historic victory in 2001. Finally, he evaluates the Colombian national team for the Centennial Cup, considering it one of the favorites to win the title.