The Copa América, South America's premier international men's football tournament, boasts a rich history filled with dramatic matches, legendary players, and unforgettable moments. This comprehensive list details every winner of the Copa América, providing a chronological overview of the tournament's evolution and the nations that have dominated the competition.
Copa América Winners by Year
This section presents a complete list of Copa América winners, year by year, showcasing the triumphant teams and their remarkable achievements. Note that the tournament's format and frequency have varied throughout its history.
| Year | Winner | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|
| 1916 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1917 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1919 | Brazil | Uruguay |
| 1920 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1921 | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1922 | Brazil | Paraguay |
| 1923 | Uruguay | Paraguay |
| 1924 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1925 | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1926 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1927 | Argentina | Uruguay |
| 1929 | Argentina | Paraguay |
| 1935 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1937 | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1939 | Peru | Uruguay |
| 1941 | Argentina | Uruguay |
| 1942 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1945 | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1946 | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1947 | Argentina | Paraguay |
| 1949 | Brazil | Paraguay |
| 1953 | Paraguay | Brazil |
| 1955 | Argentina | Chile |
| 1956 | Uruguay | Chile |
| 1957 | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1959 (I) | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1959 (II) | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1963 | Bolivia | Argentina |
| 1967 | Uruguay | Argentina |
| 1975 | Peru | Colombia |
| 1979 | Paraguay | Chile |
| 1983 | Uruguay | Brazil |
| 1987 | Uruguay | Chile |
| 1989 | Brazil | Argentina |
| 1991 | Argentina | Brazil |
| 1993 | Argentina | Mexico |
| 1995 | Uruguay | Brazil |
| 1997 | Brazil | Bolivia |
| 1999 | Brazil | Uruguay |
| 2001 | Colombia | Mexico |
| 2004 | Brazil | Argentina |
| 2007 | Brazil | Mexico |
| 2011 | Uruguay | Paraguay |
| 2015 | Chile | Argentina |
| 2016 | Chile | Argentina |
| 2019 | Brazil | Peru |
| 2021 | Argentina | Brazil |
The Most Successful Teams
Unsurprisingly, Uruguay and Argentina hold the record for the most Copa América titles, showcasing their consistent dominance throughout the tournament's history. Brazil has also consistently been a major force, solidifying its place among the all-time greats.
Uruguay's Legacy:
Uruguay’s early dominance in the competition is legendary. Their consistent success throughout the early decades established them as a powerhouse of South American football.
Argentina's Reign:
Argentina's consistent performance over the years highlights its rich footballing tradition and the talent nurtured within the nation. Their victories are punctuated by moments of individual brilliance and tactical mastery.
Brazil's Rise:
Brazil's later surge in wins shows their enduring impact on the Copa América. Their success is a testament to their strong national team program and the skillful players produced by Brazilian football.
Conclusion: A Century of South American Football
The Copa América's history is a vibrant tapestry woven from dramatic victories, heartbreaking defeats, and the enduring legacy of legendary players. This list serves as a testament to the passion, skill, and unwavering commitment of the teams and players who have shaped the competition into the prestigious tournament it is today. The tournament’s evolution, from its humble beginnings to its current global reach, underscores its enduring appeal and its importance in the world of football.
