Italy’s football body hands 7-month ban to Juventus midfielder for breaching betting rules

By Can Erozden

Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli was handed a seven-month ban Tuesday by the Italian football body for violating betting rules.

"The Federal Prosecution has reached an agreement with the footballer, Nicolò Fagioli, as a result of which, he will be sanctioned with a 12-month suspension, 5 of which will be commuted to rehabilitation along with a fine of 12,500 euros ($13,204) for violating Article 24 of the CGS that prohibits betting on football events organized by FIGC, UEFA and FIFA," said a statement from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).

The FIGC added that Fagioli, 22, will have to "follow a therapy plan" to recover from his gambling addiction.

Last week, the Italian daily La Stampa said Fagioli was involved in a criminal probe against users of illegal online betting platforms and other suspects.

Italy midfielders Nicolo Zaniolo and Sandro Tonali were implicated in the illegal betting scandal, which originated with Fagioli.

According to the Italian media, police took statements from Zaniolo along with his teammate Tonali at the Italian National Team's training camp.

After a loan spell at Cremonese in the 2021-22 season, Fagioli became a key player at Juventus last season.

This season, he played six matches in the Italian Serie A division.

Fagioli earned one cap for Italy in a 2022 friendly against Albania.