 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (September 2012) |
| Tournament details | |
|---|---|
| Host country | Uruguay |
| Dates | 12–31 January |
| Teams | 9 |
| Final positions | |
| Champions |  Uruguay (6th title) |
| Runners-up |  Argentina |
| Third place |  Paraguay |
| Fourth place |  Brazil |
The South American Youth Championship 1979 was held in Montevideo and Paysandú, Uruguay. It also served as qualification for the 1979 FIFA World Youth Championship.