Colombia Eyes Libertadores Final at Barranquilla’s Metropolitano in 2026
Facundo Trotta Arrieta
Dailysports's expert
Colombia may soon play a major role in South American football—not on the field, but as host. According to FutbolRed, the Colombian Football Federation is considering a bid to host the 2026 Copa Libertadores or Copa Sudamericana final at the Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez in Barranquilla.
Nicknamed “The Home of the National Team,” the Metropolitano is Colombia’s largest stadium, holding nearly 50,000 fans. It has a rich history of major events, including the 2001 Copa América and the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup. Its modern facilities and strategic location make it a compelling candidate under Conmebol’s single-final format.
Though no formal bid has been submitted yet, the intent to push for the final is evident. Hosting the continent’s most prestigious club event would be a symbolic achievement for Colombian football, especially at a time when its clubs have struggled to reach the tournament's final stages. Now, the hope is to make headlines not just with results, but with world-class organization.