The game of football is extremely popular all around the world. It has a large audience, which makes it the best sport to bet on. We have seen players like Lucas Paqueta tangled in betting controversies, but the Italian betting scandal is something way bigger than that.
Three players from Italy have reportedly placed bets on football games through illegal websites. Italian media has claimed that the number could be much larger, with nearly a dozen players potentially involved in the Italian betting scandal.
Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo were questioned by authorities
After Nicolo Fagioli, two other Italian players, namely Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo, have become embroiled in the Italian betting scandal. Sandro Tonali transferred from AC Milan to Newcastle United this season, while Nicolo Zaniolo has become a crucial part of Aston Villa. Both players were sent home from the Italian training camp and won’t be participating in international duty.
According to Forbes, police arrived at the Italian training camp at 5:40 p.m. and questioned them. The Italian FA (FIGC) has decided to send both players back to their Premier League clubs. Italy is set to face Malta and England in the coming days in EURO qualification matches. Regrettably, Tonali and Zaniolo won’t be on the pitch. Additionally, the mobile phones and tablets of both players have been confiscated for further investigation.
Italian betting scandal explained
Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo could be looking at a three-year ban and a fine of €25,000 if the allegations turn out to be true. Players who knew about the illegal activities, failed to report them could also be charged with a six-month ban. The illegal Italian betting scandal started with Juventus’ player, Nicolo Fagioli, who confessed to the crimes he committed.
Italian entrepreneur Fabrizio Maria Corona also accused AS Roma’s Polish midfielder, Nicola Zalewski, of being involved in illegal betting. Sports minister Andrea Abodi also addressed this issue, saying that it is not only about football but also related to addiction. “There is an even more important game than Italy’s qualification for the European Championship, and that is the one of correct behaviour, taking into account a problem that is not a football problem but a social pathology, because this is an addiction,” he said.
Till now, four Italian players have been accused of making illegal bets on football, but the number could be a lot bigger than that. The FIGC needs to be more careful and handle the situation more seriously.
