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“To have participated in such a prestigious competition and to experience the unique South American football culture would have been a thrill for Australian players, staff and fans alike … we remain hopeful for an opportunity to participate in future editions of the competition.”

Argentina, led by global superstar Lionel Messi, and Colombia, for whom Premier League Everton star James Rodriguez is the best known name, are the two host countries.

The Copa was originally due to be held in 2020, and Socceroos and Olyroos boss Graham Arnold was looking to use the tournament as a lead-up to the Tokyo Olympics tournament, for which Australia have qualified for the first time since 2018.

Arnold was realistic about the slim chances of taking part this year, but nonetheless was disappointed when the final decision to withdraw had to be taken.

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“The Socceroos’ players and staff were greatly looking forward to the unique opportunity of playing in the Copa America … which would have presented our team with a fantastic opportunity to test itself against some of the world’s best.”

Qatar, the other international side invited to compete at the Copa America, have also pulled out.

The 12 sides were to be split into northern and southern groups, with Qatar playing in the northern section against Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru and hosts Colombia.

Australia were in the southern group with Bolivia, Uruguay, Paraguay, Chile and hosts Argentina.

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A CONMEBOL source said they will look at the possibility of inviting two other teams to replace Australia and Qatar but the tournament will go ahead regardless, with 10 or 12 sides.

“Nothing will change, we will play with 10 if we have to,” the source said on condition of anonymity.

“No matter what happens, it’s the same format, same prize money, everything stays the same.”

The tournament is scheduled to kick off in Buenos Aires on June 11 and end with the final in Barranquilla, Colombia on July 10.

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