A statement from the FIGC announces Italy and Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali will start a 10-month ban for illegal betting, plus a €20,000 fine and a series of appearances to warn against the dangers of gambling addiction.
It had already been confirmed by FIGC President Gabriele Gravina today, but the final step has also now been completed, the Federation Prosecutor accepting the plea bargain.
That is a 10-month ban on the field, with the rest commuted into treatment for gambling addiction, a €20,000 fine and a series of at least 16 public appearances over the eight months to use his example as a warning for those who might fall into a similar trap.
The ban starts from the day after the statement is released, so from October 27, meaning Tonali will miss EURO 2024 and the rest of the current campaign, but should be back for the start of the 2024-25 Premier League season.
It is against the rules for any professional football player to gamble on any sport, but the punishment is more severe if he places bets on his own sport.
Unlike Juventus midfielder Nicolò Fagioli, Tonali did place bets on his own team, which at the time were both Brescia and Milan.
However, as the bets were on a victory, he cannot be investigated for match-fixing.
This plea deal includes a probation, so if he falls back into gambling, he will face a ban of 48 months.
It should’ve been a lot longer.