Juan Antonio Samaranch, president of the International...

Juan Antonio Samaranch, president of the International Olympic Committee, is considering a unique wild-card invitation that would allow Britain’s Sebastian Coe, the two-time 1,500-meter champion, to compete in the Olympics.

Two days ago, British track officials rejected a plea by Samaranch to select Coe, who was omitted from the country’s Olympic roster after a dismal performance at the national trials. Charles Palmer, Britain’s Olympic Assn. chairman, said the board would happily counter-sign an entry form for Coe, if Samaranch provides it.

For Coe, 31, to be granted a special entry, approval would have to be given by the International Amateur Athletic Federation, track and field’s worldwide governing body, and then by the IOC executive board.

The bypassing of Coe caused a major controversy after the British trials two weeks ago, when he finished fourth in his 1,500-meter heat, failed to make the final, and skipped the 800 meters.