ROME, July 25, 2007 (AFP) - The Italian Cup has been revamped for the forthcoming season in an attempt to increase its diminishing popularity, the Italian Football League (Lega-Calcio) announced on Wednesday.

The competition, which will start on August 15, will consist of the 42 clubs in Italy`s top two divisions (20 Serie A clubs and 22 Serie B clubs). Unlike last season, third division clubs have not been invited to play.

The competition will begin with 24 clubs, the 22 Serie B clubs plus Genoa and Napoli who both won promotion from the second division last season.