Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has 10-month ban ratified by FIFA as suspension starts

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been handed a 10-month ban by FIFA, which has now come into effect. This comes after the 23-year-old Italian international was found guilty by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) of violating gambling regulations.

The FIGC announced the punishment on Wednesday, which includes an additional eight months of rehabilitation and therapy. On Friday, they requested FIFA to enforce the ban globally.

FIFA confirmed on Friday evening that they have granted the request, and the ban is now in immediate effect, as reported by The Athletic.

Prior to the ban being ratified, Tonali had played in the midweek Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe had expressed hopes of Tonali featuring in the upcoming match against Wolves on Saturday, pending official confirmation.

However, with the ban now confirmed, Tonali will not be able to participate in the game at Molineux.

Tonali, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan in a €70 million transfer in July, will be prohibited from taking part in any matches for the club or the national team during the 10-month ban period.

In Italy, gambling is legal as long as it is done through recognized platforms. Nevertheless, Article 24 of the FIGC’s sporting justice code prohibits placing or accepting bets on events organized by the FIGC, FIFA, and UEFA.

Earlier last week, Tonali’s legal team stated that he had met with prosecutors and sought a speedy resolution to the case. The FIGC confirmed the sanctions on Thursday.

During an event in London, Tonali’s representative, Beppe Riso, disclosed that the midfielder had been struggling with a “gambling illness.”

Riso said, “Sandro is a bit shaken up by the situation. But he’s already started to fight back. Sandro is a fighter. He’s facing the biggest game against an illness. Sandro is accustomed to big games and usually emerges victorious. Sandro’s experience will save the lives of other kids.”

Howe had previously stated that Newcastle would provide Tonali with utmost support and care. He said the club will “throw our arms around him” to provide love and support.

Two other players, Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo, have also been investigated in connection with the same case. Fagioli agreed to a seven-month ban from football as part of a plea deal with the FIGC.

Zaniolo was questioned along with Tonali during the international break at Italy’s Coverciano training base. However, Zaniolo has maintained that he did not use any platforms to place bets on sports.

(Photo: Getty Images)