Italian footballer Nicolò Fagioli, who plays for Juventus, is in hot water as he has received a seven-month suspension and a fine of €12,500 from the Italian Football Federation (FAGC).
The suspension comes in the wake of Fagioli’s involvement in betting activities that violated Italy’s strict regulations.
Additionally, he must attend a minimum of 10 public meetings at amateur sports associations to raise awareness about the harmful effects of problem gambling.
The Suspension and Fine
Fagioli, a 22-year-old midfielder, was found to have broken the country’s betting rules. If he fails to meet the specified provisions, his suspension may be extended to 12 months.
The FAGC, in an official statement, revealed that Fagioli had reached an agreement to accept a 12-month disqualification, with five months of the ban being commuted to alternative measures, along with the €12,500 fine.
These actions were taken in response to Fagioli’s violation of article 24 of the CGS, which prohibits betting on football events organized by FIGC, UEFA, and FIFA.
Alternative Measures
As part of the agreement, Fagioli will need to undergo a therapeutic plan lasting at least six months and participate in a series of 10 public meetings within five months, as prescribed by the FIGC.
These meetings will take place at various venues, including amateur sports associations and centers specializing in gambling addiction recovery.
Retroactive Ban
The suspension will be retroactive from the date the prosecutors officially communicated it to the FAGC.
This means that Fagioli could potentially make his return to the field in late May, towards the latter stages of the season.
Monitoring and Cooperation
The FAGC has stated that it will closely monitor Fagioli’s compliance with the imposed measures. Any violations will lead to the application of additional penalties as per the CGS.
Fagioli’s agent, Marco Giordano, revealed that they had advised Fagioli to self-report and seek treatment, acknowledging that the player had a gambling addiction.
Conclusion
Nicolò Fagioli’s cooperation has led to a minimized ban, sparing him from a more severe penalty.
Reports suggest that his case is part of a larger betting scandal in Italy, involving approximately 40 players, with Premier League stars Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo allegedly implicated as well.
