South American footballs governing bodyon Thursday suspended the next round of

The Copa Libertadores is the South American equivalent of Europes Champions League, although the 2020 edition only began in January and is still at the group stage.

Committed to the prevention of COVID-19 and faced with the risk of its spread, and to safeguard delegates, referees, officials, press and fans, (CONMEBOL) has taken the decision to suspend the 2002 Copa Libertadores matches in the week of March 15-21, said the governing body in a statement.

Earlier on Thursday, FIFA accepted a request from CONMEBOL to postpone two upcoming rounds of South American qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Latin American countries have been stepping up measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Several countries have announced two-week isolation periods on travelers arriving from the worst affected countries, while others have closed schools or banned festivities.

Costa Rica has suspended its football league while Argentina has called off its MotoGP in April as well as the South American Swimming Championships, an Athletics Grand Prix meeting, the Fencing World Cup and an Olympic boxing qualification tournament.

Brazils Flamengo are the reigning Libertadores champions following a dramatic 2-1 victory over then-holders River Plate of Argentina in last years final in Lima.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred

In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust. For 14 free days, you can have access to a world of in-depth analyses, investigative journalism, top opinions and a range of features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today. Thereafter you will be billed R75 per month. You can cancel anytime and if you cancel within 14 days you wont be billed.

Dane van Niekerk confirms Proteas retirement, ends stellar career on tumultuous note

Rain threatens first ODI between Proteas and Windies in East London

Bafana squad named for Afcon qualifiers against Liberia: In-form Mailula, Saleng crack nod

The World Cup is open - Springboks take notice of Six Nations high-fliers France, Ireland

Simply heartbroken: Pitso very sad to see ex-Sundowns player Shozi homeless

Transnet troubles, growth plans cause Exxaro to skip special dividend

As WeBuyCars owner crashes almost 70%, company defends CEOs R50m share sale in Dec

Humble Mkhwebane says shes best Public Protector ever, compares herself to Madikizela-Mandela

Huge swings in Denny and Lancewood owner Libstars shares as profits feel squeeze

Busisiwe Mavuso Ratings downgrade another reminder of SAs failure to implement reforms

Get the Sport Report every Thursday to stay up to speed with everything you need to know in the world of sport.

Play daily crosswords, sudoku, puzzles, and more

The 2023 Fourmula One season starts this weekend. Who is your favourite to win the drivers championship this year?

Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.

None of the above. Were in for a surprise!

None of the above. Were in for a surprise!

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.