Professional soccer in Colombia will pause until August 19 after the División Mayor del Fútbol Colombiano (Dimayor) postponed its competitions following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the country on August 10.

The decision affects the Primera A, Primera B and Copa Colombia and comes as the country deals with the impact of the earthquake, which caused widespread destruction across several cities.

“We understand that Colombia is going through a moment that affects us all. We know that, in circumstances like these, priorities change and that the most important thing is to stand by those who have lost their peace of mind, material possessions or, in some cases, loved ones,” Dimayor said.

When will Colombian soccer return?

Dimayor confirmed that all competitions scheduled for this weekend have been postponed, with action set to resume on August 19.

“We will resume on August 19 with the scheduling of our various competitions, which we will announce in due course,” the organization said.

The decision expands on the initial measures taken after several pending matches scheduled for the Monday the earthquake struck were suspended.

Dimayor also explained that its intention is for soccer to eventually continue in cities and venues that were not affected by the earthquake and are in suitable condition to host matches.

The organization emphasized that keeping soccer active is also important for the thousands of people and families who depend economically on the sport, but ultimately decided to postpone all competitions scheduled for this weekend.

CONMEBOL and Colombian Football Federation donate $1 million

CONMEBOL and the Colombian Football Federation (FCF) announced a joint $1 million donation on Thursday to support reconstruction efforts in areas affected by the earthquake.

The funds will be distributed through the “Colombia, un solo corazón” campaign, led by first lady Ana Lucía Pineda.

Latest figures from the Colombia earthquake

According to the Colombian Geological Service (SGC), more than 160 aftershocks have been recorded since Monday's earthquake. Twelve registered a magnitude above 3.0, while two exceeded 4.0.

Colombian authorities have reported 265 deaths, 3,494 injuries and 53,816 people affected, while 496 people remain missing.

In response to the scale of the emergency, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella declared an economic emergency to help channel domestic and international funds toward infrastructure reconstruction and assistance for those affected.

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube