Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and Paraguay on Tuesday launched their official joint bid to host the Soccer World Cup in 2030, exactly 100 years after the event was first held, in Montevideo.
“We believe that FIFA has an obligation to honor the memory of those who organized the first World Cup,” said Alejandro Dominguez, president of the South American federation Conmebol, in Argentina.
He attended the launch event at the headquarters of the Argentine Football Association (AFA) in Ezeiza, south of Buenos Aires.
The competition is intensifying before FIFA chooses the host in 2024.
South America’s main challenge is a joint bid from Spain, Portugal and Ukraine, backed by European governing body UEFA.
Saudi Arabia is considering a bid to co-host with Egypt and Greece.
In December, Dominguez said FIFA should honor the legacy of South American icons Pele and Diego Maradona by awarding the 2030 World Cup to the continent.
Uruguay was the first world champion in 1930, defeating Argentina 4-2 in the final of the 13-team World Cup held in Montevideo.
Argentina are the defending champions, after beating France in Qatar last year.
The next World Cup will be held in 2026 by the United States, Mexico and Canada – the first time there will be 48 competing teams, up from 32.