Dharamsala, August 13 - The Tibetan players of the world’s most popular sport received a major setback today when their European trip was cancelled. According to Voice of Tibet Radio Service, the trip had to be cancelled since the French Embassy in New Delhi denied visas to the players.

The French Embassy reasoned that many Tibetans have illegally migrated to France. The Tibetan National Football team was to leave for Europe for friendly matches in France, Italy and Denmark after finishing its ten-day camp at Nehru Stadium.

Two coaches, Mr. Thupten of Tibetan Homes School and an Indian coach from Sports Authority of India, trained the Tibetan football team.

The 22-member squad was earlier selected by an experienced football coach from Sports Authority of India, Dehradun in June.