MILAN (AFP) - Italy's bid to host the 2022 Ryder Cup was given a boost on Wednesday when Turkey pulled out as candidate for the biennial golf showpiece between Europe and the United States.

Italian golf federation (FIG) president Franco Chimenti on Tuesday officially put forward the Marco Simone golf club on the periphery of Rome as Italy's candidate venue.

Turkey had been among seven European Continental nations vying to host the 2022 edition but, citing environmental concerns, pulled out to focus on building a new golf course in a move that could see the country bid for the staging of the 2026 Ryder Cup.

The Marco Simone golf club has hosted a number of top events including the Italian Open in 1994.

Italy faces competition from fellow candidates Austria, Denmark, Germany, Portugal and Spain.