An opportunity to shine on the European stage for the first time has been snatched away from Kernow FA after this seasons Conifa European Football Cup was cancelled.

Conifa is the Confederation of Independent Football Associations that host international football for regions who aren't recognised by Fifa, with Cornwall being an example.

The tournament was supposed to be played last year however, it was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The previous summer they were due to play in the Conifa 2020 World Cup of Football but this was also was put on hold due to the pandemic.

Posting on Facebook on Wednesday, May 18 CONIFA Europe said: "On 26 April 2022 CONIFA European president was informed by a member of the Nice local organising committee that County of Nice and the Municipality of Nice are stepping back of hosting CONIFA European Championship 2022.

"Citing as a motivation a letter from the prefecture prohibiting the event. CONIFA European President has repeatedly urged the sending of this document, but he has never received a reply.

"Despite the written engagement by Mr Christian Estrosi, the Mayor of Nice and multiple letters, emails, calls and messages by CONIFA both the FA and the Municipality remained unresponsive in the last two weeks.

"With consideration of the above mentioned CONIFA have to announce that the European Championship in Nice will not be held. CONIFA is fully aware to the enormous damage caused to its members and its reputation and will seek for legal actions."

A statement from Kernow FA's Director of Football Andrew Bragg said: “We are bitterly disappointed with the cancellation of Conifa's upcoming European Football Cup in Nice We at Kernow FA have built something special to represent Cornwall & we know that is admired all over the world.

“We would like to apologise to everyone behind the scenes who we know have put a massive amount of time and effort into this project, and to the many people and businesses who have supported us.

"To the players and backroom staff who have all arranged holidays from work and time away from their families, I say a heartfelt thank you.

“The only thing I can add is that we will come back stronger!"

On Sunday, May 8 Conifa stated that the tournament was 'in serious jeopardy' after the County of Nice FA and the Municipality of Nice said they would not be hosting the tournament.