Australia has pulled out of the race to stage the 2018 World Cup and will instead target the 2022 tournament.

"We have been in discussion with FIFA for months and it is that trusting relationship with the leadership of the governing body that has caused us to focus on 2022 and decide to leave the field for 2018 to European contenders," said Frank Lowy, the head of the Australian football federation (FFA).

FFA chairman Frank Lowy, left, with FIFA president Sepp Blatter. Credit:Getty Images

The decision was taken after lengthy discussions between the FFA and FIFA.

Australia's decision to withdraw its candidacy leaves the Holland-Belgium, Spain-Portugal joint bids as well as the United States, England and Russia as the 2018 contenders.