Local

Orlando will host 3 Copa America Centenario games in 2016

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando will host three games in next summer's Copa America Centenario, a soccer tournament taking place in 12 U.S.

"From the international tourism, to the significant impact for our local economy and the sheer excitement for the game of soccer, today's announcement is another big win for Orlando," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. "We spent the better part of last year completely reconstructing the Orlando Citrus Bowl so that we could host more high-profile events like this and I'm proud we continue to deliver on that promise."

It's the first time the United States is hosting the tournament, which features top national teams from South America and CONCACAF, the soccer federation representing countries from the Caribbean, North America and Central America.

"Hosting the Copa America Centenario at the Orlando Citrus Bowl is a great example of what our community can accomplish when we come together for a common goal," said Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. "These events are not only exciting opportunities for our residents, but will draw thousands of people from across the world benefiting our local economy. The tournament is expected to draw approximately 40,000 room nights and projected to yield $30 million in economic impact to Orange County."

Central Florida Sports Commission President and CEO John Bisignano told a local newspaper that the games would generate 40,000 hotel-room nights and $30 million in economic impact for the Orlando region.

"We are competing against top tier sports destinations across the country to host events of this caliber and fulfill our mission of driving visitors to Central Florida," said Central Florida Sports Commission President and CEO John Bisignano. "Being selected as one of 11 host venues for the tournament is a testament to the first class venues and outstanding teamwork by our community partners."

The tournament is expected to include teams from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela, the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica and Jamaica. Also attempting to qualify are teams from Panama, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago and Haiti.