THE Scottish FA have withdrawn from the Cerebral Palsy World Championship over fears it could jeopardise Scotland’s status as an independent football nation.

A change in eligibility rules from the IFCPF means that any player possessing a British passport is free to represent any of the home nations.

And the prospect of mixed sides has forced the SFA to take the drastic action of pulling out from the upcoming tournament in Argentina.

The issue of British sides has been a controversial one in the past and came to the fore at the Olympics in London as Team GB entered a squad in the football competition.

The Scottish Cerebral Palsy team has regularly competed in IFCPF competitions since taking part in the European Championships in 2006.

But Hampden chief Stewart Regan insists the decision to withdraw had to be taken to safeguard Scotland’s position on the world stage.

He said: “It is extremely regrettable that despite our appeals the IFCPF has chosen to enforce this rule change, which we believe would have a detrimental effect on Scotland’s status as an independent football nation.

“We have taken every possible action in an attempt to allow the team to compete but have determined that the new rule leaves us with no option other than to withdraw from all IFCPF competitions, including the World Championships, with immediate effect.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the players who were set to represent their country on the world stage later this year. This is a disappointing outcome to what has been a successful journey for the Scotland CP team, of whom the entire country can be proud.”