Italian Soccer Players Under Investigation for Illegal Betting Activities

MILAN, Italy — A significant investigation involving illegal online betting has surfaced, implicating midfielder Weston McKennie and 12 other Serie A players. The probe, led by Milan prosecutors, stems from evidence related to gambling activity uncovered during previous investigations into players Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Fagioli, both of whom faced suspensions for their roles in gambling scandals.

The current inquiry reveals that the alleged betting activities occurred between 2021 and 2023, utilizing prohibited platforms for poker and other sports betting outside of soccer. Notably, both Tonali and Fagioli were already serving bans and attending therapy for gambling addiction at the time they provided testimony that expanded the investigation.

Fagioli, who is on loan from Juventus, admitted he placed bets on football matches, leading to his seven-month suspension. However, the scope of the new investigation does not indicate that other implicated players have wagered on soccer. The authorities are primarily focused on online poker activities, which, while illegal, do not result in automatic game suspensions.

In a statement, Fagioli mentioned: “I pointed out to [former forward Nicolò] Zaniolo illegal sites where he could make online bets, on roulette or poker… the organizers of the sites had told me that they would give me some advantages if I brought other bettors.” This admission reinvigorated the inquiry as it suggests an element of promotion of these illegal betting sites among teammates.

The investigation has already seized over €1.5 million in assets, and five individuals are under house arrest in connection with the case. Legal ramifications for the players primarily involve economic penalties, as authorities have indicated a maximum fine of €250 (approximately $284) for their infractions.

McKennie, currently signed with Juventus, will continue to compete while the investigation is ongoing. However, his future in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in June remains uncertain as pending reviews progress.

Another name in the spotlight is Weston McKennie’s former Juventus teammates Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes, who are also part of the group facing scrutiny. An outcome of fines instead of suspensions seems likely, given the nature of the gambling involved, which primarily pertains to online poker rather than illegal bets on soccer matches.

As this high-profile investigation unfolds, both the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and the prosecution will continue to examine the evidence. The possibility of significant sanctions, including player suspensions, remains contingent on the results of these inquiries and subsequent actions by regulatory bodies.