Italy's players have gone on strike over tournament bonuses to throw their Rugby World Cup preparations into total disarray.
The Italian Rugby Federation (IRF) confirmed the stance taken by their squad members, stating that they have "taken note" of unhappiness surrounding bonus payments.
A 40-strong group of players, minus captain Sergio Parisse and Martin Castrogiovanni who are still on club duties, linked up this week as part of the Azzurri's training camp.
However, the IRF confirmed that their plans have been disrupted as the days tick down towards their World Cup opener against France on September 19.
"The Italian Rugby Federation has taken note of the willingness expressed last night by the players called to the rally in Villabassa with the National Team, not to take part in the training and not to wear (FIR) sports equipment until reaching an economic agreement for participation in the summer preparation and the Rugby World Cup in September in England.
"The stance of last night does not change the will of the Federal Council - fully shared by the staff of the national team - to reach a financial settlement with the players based not on mere participation in international windows but on concrete meritocratic principles related to performance."
Italy are in Pool D for rugby's showpiece event, alongside Canada, Ireland, Romania and France.
Daniel Lewis
