At least 31 players or members of Copa América delegations tested positive for covid-19, reports Brazil

(Reuters) – The Brazilian Ministry of Health reported on Monday that 31 players or members of the delegations participating in the America Cup They tested positive for covid-19 on Sunday, on the first day of the South American soccer tournament.

Another 10 cases were confirmed among employees of the hotels where the players and their delegations stay in Brasilia, Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga told reporters.

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The confirmation of more cases of infections comes as the South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) defends itself against accusations that the tournament, which was awarded to Brazil less than two weeks in advance, is totally improvised.

Brazil was chosen after Colombia lost its headquarters amid a wave of protests and Argentina, the other original co-host, dismissed itself over a spike in COVID-19 cases.