Sandro Tonali betting scandal: How long could Newcastle midfielder be banned for?
Jacque Talbot
- Updated: 16 Oct 2023 05:32 CDT
- 4 min read
Sandro Tonali has become embroiled in a betting scandal that’s making headline news across Italy.
The Newcastle midfielder, along with Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo, have been accused of breaching rules around betting, though the extent of their rule-breaking it is yet to become clear.
La Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that Tonali is prepared to engage in plea bargain negotiations with the FIGC and the Turin Prosecutor, but he does run the risk of being slapped with a ban running a minimum of 18 months in Italy and his national side.
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The Italy midfielder came under formal investigation last week - he was questioned by the police at Italy's training centre in Coverciano while on international duty before he was sent back to Newcastle, where he begins training today.
Outlet Il Corriere della Sera reported that Tonali was visibly distraught as the affair became public knowledge and is now looking to address his gambling addiction through a therapist.
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Gazzetta, who broke the news, stated that Tonali engaged in gambling on football matches, which violates Article 24 of the Code of Sporting Justice. If found guilty and claims are held up, they would face a minimum suspension of three years, though this can be reduced via a plea bargain.
But through a plea bargain, they could potentially reduce this suspension by half. It's important to note, however, that Tonali is yet to publicly comment on the allegations against him.
How long could the Newcastle star be banned for?
Newcastle reporter Joel Bland has reported that the Magpies will have to wait until December to find out the outcome of the allegations, but Tonali is still allowed to play in all competitions until then.
It’s still not clear whether Tonali placed bets on AC Milan games during his time there: investigators are currently looking through his mobile records.
If Tonali is found guilty of betting on football matches, the Italian Football Federation could ban him for a minimum of 18 months.
English rules differ and there has been no indication over the length of time the FA will look to ban Tonali - if at all. Earlier this year, Brentford striker Ivan Toney was banned for nine months across all football for breaching the gambling code.
Indeed, the exact duration of Tonali's ban will be determined, in England at least, but it’s very conceivable that he will be banned from featuring for the national team at least. Furthermore, UEFA may have their own ideas about suspension, with Newcastle featuring in their Champions League competition this season.
