Newcastle Midfielder Sandro Tonali Receives Sanction for Betting Rule Breach
Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has been handed a suspended two-month ban and fined £20,000 for breaching Football Association betting rules. The FA announced that an independent regulatory commission imposed the sanction on the 23-year-old Italy international after he admitted to 50 offences.
Details of the Sanction
- Tonali admitted to 50 breaches of FA Rule E8 for placing bets on football matches between August 12, 2023, and October 12, 2023.
- The independent Regulatory Commission imposed a two-month suspension from all football activities, which is suspended until the end of the 2024/25 season.
- He was also fined £20,000 and warned about his future conduct.
Background
Tonali, a £55 million summer signing from AC Milan, is currently serving a 10-month worldwide ban for similar breaches imposed by the Italian football federation (FIGC) in October last year.
Club’s Response
Newcastle swiftly vowed to help Tonali with what his agent described as a “gambling addiction” when news of the initial offences emerged. The club’s statement highlighted Tonali’s cooperation with the investigation and his commitment to following a therapeutic plan and educational programme.
As acknowledged by the FA, Tonali’s level of assistance in self-referring and cooperating with the investigation was extraordinary and unprecedented.
Tonali will be free to play again on August 27, and this news comes as a relief to head coach Eddie Howe, who sees Tonali’s acquisition as crucial for Newcastle’s first Champions League campaign in two decades.
Sandro Tonali continues to train with his teammates and follow the club’s support program to address his situation.