Newcastle United release statement confirming Sandro Tonali ban, can restart career in August 2024

Newcastle United have released a statement on Sandro Tonali saying that the Italian midfielder has been banned from football until August 2024.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has imposed a 10-month ban on Tonali for breaching rules on betting on matches. This ban has been ratified by FIFA and applies worldwide, effectively barring him from participating in any football activity.

Tonali's offences came to light when he admitted to betting on games involving Milan and Brescia, the clubs he was associated with at the time. His admission of having a gambling addiction further complicated matters. Despite gambling not being a crime in Italy, provided bets are placed on platforms recognized by the Customs and Monopolies agencies, Tonali's actions were deemed to be in violation of the rules set by the FIGC.

The ban commenced two days ago, meaning that Tonali will be unable to play for Newcastle United or any other club until his suspension ends. In addition to the ban, Tonali is required to undergo eight months of rehabilitation for his gambling addiction. This means that he will miss the rest of the season and UEFA Euro 2024.

Newcastle have now released a statement confirming the ban, effective from October 27. The club also said the Italian will be able to return to football from August 27, 2024.

“Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been banned from competitive football for ten months, as effective from Friday 27th October 2023, following illegal betting charges by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC),” the statement read.

“FIGC's sanction includes an overall 18-month ban, with eight months commuted as the player participates in a therapeutic plan and educational programme in Italy consisting of 16 commitments.

“On the evening of Friday 27th October, Newcastle United received confirmation that FIFA has endorsed FIGC's sanction to be applied worldwide, meaning Sandro will be eligible to return to competitive football from Tuesday 27th August 2024.”