The Squadra Azzurra will be wearing the World Cup winners’ logo for the duration of the qualification for South Africa 2010.

As defending champions, Italy have been granted permission by FIFA to use the emblem on their official gear.

Federation President Giancarlo Abete announced: “We will wear the jerseys with the logo of World champions from the September 6 match onwards."

“FIFA have authorised us to take this step.”

“We begin this journey in Nice on August 20 and hope it will be a wonderful adventure.”

The World Cup emblem will actually not yet be place for Marcello Lippi's first game back, which is a friendly with Austria scheduled for August 20.

It will, however, be in place for when Italy officially begin their title defense with the opening qualifier on September 6 against Cyprus.