Published on 19.10.2023
Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali is currently under investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) for alleged breaches of betting rules.
The 23-year-old Italian international was removed from the national team’s Euro 2024 qualifying match against England at Wembley on Tuesday. The club has issued a statement confirming his cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
Newcastle United released a statement saying, “Newcastle United can confirm that Sandro Tonali is subject to investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to illegal betting activity. Sandro is fully engaging with the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities. He and his family will continue to receive the club’s full support. Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”
In a hearing at the Italian Federation in Turin on Tuesday, Sandro Tonali admitted to placing bets on Milan to win games, both those in which he played and those he did not. Such conduct, according to FIFA Code 26, could result in players facing a suspension from worldwide football of up to three years.
Tonali is expected to receive a shorter suspension, primarily for his cooperation with the investigation and admission of wrongdoing.
