Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been hit with a 10-month ban after FIFA ratified the decision made by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). The suspension, which includes eight months of rehabilitation and therapy, has now come into effect.
The 23-year-old Italy international was found guilty of violating gambling rules set by the FIGC. The federation announced the sanction on Wednesday and subsequently requested FIFA to apply the ban globally, a request that was granted on Friday.
Confirming the news, FIFA told The Athletic on Friday evening that the ban would be immediately effective. Tonali’s participation in the recent Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund had cast some doubt on his availability for the game against Wolves on Saturday, with manager Eddie Howe expressing optimism. However, with the ban now officially in place, Tonali will not be playing at Molineux.
Tonali, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan for €70 million in July, will be unable to participate in any matches for either his club or the national team during the 10-month period.
While gambling itself is not illegal in Italy as long as it is done through recognized platforms, Article 24 of the FIGC’s sporting justice code specifically prohibits betting on events organized by FIGC, FIFA, and UEFA. Tonali’s legal team had confirmed that they sought a quick resolution to the case after his meeting with prosecutors, and the FIGC subsequently confirmed the sanctions on Thursday.
During an event in London earlier this month, Tonali’s agent, Beppe Riso, revealed that his client was battling a gambling addiction. Riso said, “Sandro is a bit shaken up by the situation, but he’s already started to fight back. Sandro is a fighter. The biggest game has started against an illness. Sandro is used to big games and usually he wins them. Sandro’s experience will save the lives of other kids.”
Eddie Howe had indicated that Newcastle would offer Tonali their unwavering support, stating that the club would “throw our arms around” him and provide love and assistance.
In relation to the same case, Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli received a seven-month ban after reaching an agreement with FIGC, and investigations are ongoing for Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo, who was questioned alongside Tonali during the international break.
(Photo: Getty Images)
