Tonali Faces FA Charges for Alleged Breaches of Betting Rules
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is facing disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) for allegedly breaking betting rules. The 23-year-old player is currently serving a 10-month ban imposed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in October after violating betting regulations in Italy. Tonali, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan in July for a hefty £55 million, is accused by the FA of placing 50 bets on matches between August 12th and October 12th, 2023.
Tonali’s ban by the FIGC was initially for betting on matches involving his former teams Brescia and Milan. FIFA later granted the Italian federation’s request to extend the ban worldwide. Newcastle United released a statement on Thursday acknowledging the misconduct charge against Tonali and expressed their full support for the player, stating that he continues to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigations.
Due to his current ban, Tonali will remain ineligible to play until August and will therefore not be able to participate in the upcoming Euro 2024. The Italy international was also fined €20,000 (£17,380). However, his initial 18-month ban was reduced after he agreed to undergo an eight-month “therapeutic plan” aimed at helping him recover from gambling addiction. As part of the plan, Tonali is required to make at least 16 public appearances in Italy, where he will speak to young players about the dangers associated with gambling.
Although he cannot participate in any matches, Tonali is permitted to train with his Newcastle teammates during his suspension. Prior to his ban, Tonali had made only 12 appearances for Newcastle under manager Eddie Howe.
The midfielder has until April 5th to respond to the charges brought against him by the FA. The outcome of this case will determine the player’s future and whether further penalties will be imposed on him.
Tonali’s legal troubles have once again brought the issue of gambling addiction among professional athletes into the spotlight. This incident serves as a reminder that even the most talented and successful sportsmen can succumb to the dangers of gambling, highlighting the need for education and support within the industry to address this issue effectively.