A new investigation into illegal betting has revealed the involvement of Matteo Gigante, the Roman tennis player, alongside twelve Serie A footballers and other non-athletes. According to reports from Corriere della Sera, the incidents occurred between 2021 and 2023, shedding light on a widespread network of unauthorized betting activities.
The footballers under investigation include prominent names such as Alessandro Florenzi, Nicolò Zaniolo, Mattia Perin, Weston McKennie, Leandro Paredes, Angel Di Maria, Raoul Bellanova, Samuele Ricci, Cristian Buonaiuto, Matteo Cancellieri, and Junior Firpo. The inquiry has also uncovered connections to non-sporting individuals, further complicating the case.
Authorities are examining the use of illegal platforms for betting on sports and poker, with some participants allegedly masking their debts through transactions with a Milanese jewelry store. This method involved fake purchases of luxury watches and jewelry to conceal the financial exchanges.
The investigation continues to unfold, raising questions about the ethical responsibilities of athletes and the measures needed to prevent such activities in the future. Fans and analysts are closely following the developments as the scandal impacts both the sporting and legal worlds.