The International Korfball Federation has awarded the European version of its Beach World Cup to Bonson in France ©IKF

The International Korfball Federation (IKF) has awarded the European version of its Beach World Cup to Bonson in France.

Action will take place on July 6 and 7 next year with countries from around the world invited to enter.

Senior and under-19 tournaments will be played and the best European nations in each will be crowned as continental champions.

The French Korfball Federation is said to have achieved "full support" from the municipality of Bonson.

"From the beginning of the bidding process the municipality showed great ambition and willingness to host the event within its borders," an IKF statement said.

Beach korfball is being heavily promoted by the IKF ©IKF
Beach korfball is being heavily promoted by the IKF ©IKF

"Bonson is located in the heart of the Loire department in the beautiful Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region close to Saint-Etienne. 

"With the presence of the oldest korfball club in France, FJEP Bonson, it is clear that the city already knows the power of korfball."

The IKF introduced its Beach Korfball World Cups last year, with each continent given the opportunity to organise a tournament. 

A World Cup in Asia is likely to be confirmed shortly.