Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali faces 10-month ban over betting scandal

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has been handed a 10-month football ban and an additional eight months of rehabilitation. This decision comes in response to allegations of his involvement in a betting scandal, which contravenes both the club’s and the sport’s regulations.

Tonali has admitted to the accusations, and it has been established that the former AC Milan player not only placed bets but also wagered on his former team, AC Milan.

Gabriele Gravina, the President of the Italian Football Federation (FiGC), has officially confirmed the 10-month ban for Sandro Tonali, with an eight-month rehabilitation program to follow.

“The FIGC Prosecutor and Tonali have reached an agreement, which I have already approved.

“The agreement consists of a 10-month ban plus eight months of rehab activities and at least 16 public appearances.

“Rules provide a ban for a few years, but there can be a plea agreement and attenuating circumstances,” continued Gravina.

“The guys collaborated above and beyond expectations, so we will continue to follow the rules we had adopted.”

Juventus midfielder Nicolò Fagioli, who was entangled in the same scandal, initially faced a 12-month suspension but successfully appealed for a reduction to seven months. This decrease in the ban was granted due to Fagioli’s proactive approach in seeking assistance for his gambling addiction, committing to rehabilitation, and actively participating in at least 10 public awareness campaigns to dissuade others from following a similar path.

Fagioli had voluntarily disclosed his situation to authorities even before any formal investigation was initiated, and he had not engaged in betting on his own team. These factors contributed significantly to the reduction in his ban.

Sandro Tonali has also taken steps to address his gambling addiction. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is expected to issue an official statement confirming the specifics of Tonali’s suspension later today.