ConIFA explains decision to move Euros from Isle of Man

A lack of financial support from within the Isle of Man and limited travel options are being given as the main reasons for a major football tournament not taking place here this summer.

ConIFA has issued a statement to explain why the European Football Cup has been moved to Hungary.

The tournament had originally been awarded to the Isle of Man and was due to take place here between June 13 and 21.

That was then changed to the group stage being hosted in London and the knockout matches here.

But over the weekend, the latest plan was confirmed.

ConIFA says the first change was made when it became apparent financial backing from Manx companies, investors and government did not materialise as the Manx International Football Alliance had originally believed it would.

There were also problems with the limited number of ferry tickets available to get squads and fans over to the Island, with the tournament happening straight after TT.

The split venue idea was then proposed, but that was withdrawn last week, when it became apparent promised financial backing from sponsors would not be available in advance to meet deposit payments for the likes of stadiums and hotels in London.

There was also concern events in the Isle of Man historically can struggle to sell tickets in advance.

MIFA was not willing to risk a situation where the tournament could be cancelled or the number of teams reduced at short notice.

The upshot of a recent emergency meeting of ConIFA's Executive Committee, which was called by MIFA, was an offer from the Szekely Land FA to host the tournament in Budapest in Hungary.

ConIFA says it's apparent the tournament has the full backing of the Hungarian public, government and football association.

The confederation says it's extremely sorry for MIFA, and Ellan Vannin that the Euros are not taking place here, but recognises and applauds the effort and commitment MIFA always demonstrates towards ConIFA.

The Island's Ellan Vannin side have been drawn in Group B of the tournament, alongside County of Nice and the Romani people.