The Italian Football Federation have officially ended Roberto Donadoni's reign as coach of the national team, following their exit from Euro 2008 at the quarter-final stage.

The 44-year-old former Livorno boss had signed a new two-year contract extension before the tournament, but the FIGC have now decided to axe Donadoni with immediate affect.

A statement confirmed: "The Italian Football Federation would like to confirm that Donadoni's contract has been allowed to expire.

"President Giancarlo Abete met Donadoni in the FIGC's offices and during the course of the meeting they reviewed the work done over the last two years and the European Championships.

"While stressing his sincere respect for Donadoni on a personal level and appreciating his hard work and professional conduct, the president informed the coach that the FIGC didn't intend to continue his contract."