The Italian football scene has erupted again with a major betting scandal that touches several Serie A names. At the center of the storm are prominent Italian players under investigation for alleged participation in a covert betting network. The list includes Juventus midfielder Nicolò Fagioli, Newcastle defender Sandro Tonali, and Roma talent Nicolo Zaniolo, who spent the season on loan at Aston Villa. Italian sports authorities are probing a conspiracy that could involve as many as 30 individuals, according to local outlets.
The scandal has dominated Italian media since it first surfaced late last week. Tonali and Zaniolo abruptly left a national training facility where they were preparing for the European Championship qualifier. Police intervened to question them and seized their phones and tablets as part of the inquiry. The same procedure was carried out with Fagioli, according to Italian reports.
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The charges carry serious implications. Under Article 24 of the FIGC regulations, professional players are prohibited from placing bets on matches organized by FIGC, UEFA, or FIFA. If the allegations prove true, players could face prison terms up to three years, a minimum of five years of disqualification, and fines up to 25,000 euros. Such penalties would jeopardize the players’ careers and reputations.
Gambling Addiction
The situation raises concerns about gambling addiction. Tonali has reportedly acknowledged a gambling problem and indicated efforts to recover. He also indicated that he approached the FIGC about initiatives to combat gambling addiction. Separate reports claim that Fagioli admitted to Turin prosecutors that Tonali helped him install an app that enabled betting on matches.
The likelihood of both Tonali and Fagioli facing future participation in European competitions, should Italy qualify, appears uncertain. Details about Zaniolo remain sparse, and he has denied involvement in the case.
In principle, the risk is borne by the individuals involved rather than their clubs. Yet the possible involvement of teammates is a real concern, as they could face penalties if they were aware of bets and failed to report them. The potential sanctions include fines of no less than 15,000 euros and disqualification for at least six months.
Ancelotti’s Support
Several high-profile figures across Italian sport have voiced support for a measured response from the football community. Carlo Ancelotti, coach of Real Madrid, described the issue as a serious lapse among players caught in a gambling web. He urged a scientific and compassionate approach to problem gambling, noting that treatment and prevention should accompany accountability. He also defended the broader football community, emphasizing that most players are dedicated professionals who understand and respect the rules. The scandal recalls earlier high-profile episodes in Italian football, including a notorious incident from the early 1980s when a prominent director was implicated in a betting controversy.