Francesco Luciani, an assistant referee in Italy’s top football leagues, is under scrutiny after authorities uncovered his financial ties to an illegal betting operation. Investigators revealed that Luciani loaned €73,000 to Fiorentina midfielder Nicolo Fagioli, who had gambling debts linked to the criminal scheme.
The money was reportedly transferred in eight separate payments during 2022. These payments were made to Elysium, a jewelry store that served as a financial front for the illegal betting network. The store was used to disguise payments and settle debts for several players involved in the ring.
Jewelry Store Used to Launder Gambling Money
According to the investigation, players involved in the scheme pretended to purchase expensive watches and jewelry. In some cases, they left behind only cash and collected receipts. In others, they paid more than the item’s price and received the goods, helping cover their debts to underground operators.
Two of the individuals who allegedly received the money were Tommaso De Giacomo and Patrick Fizzera, both believed to be key figures in the illegal operation.
Although Luciani has not been officially charged by Milan’s public prosecutor, his name appears in the case file. He has since pulled out of officiating duties, including withdrawing from a Serie B match between Sampdoria and Cittadella over the weekend.
Star Players Under the Microscope
Nicolo Fagioli was suspended for seven months in October 2023 for betting on football games. He is not the only player facing scrutiny. Others under investigation include Leandro Paredes, Angel Di Maria, Junior Firpo, Federico Gatti of Juventus, and Radu Dragusin of Tottenham Hotspur.
Leaked messages between Luciani and Fagioli suggest the referee was under financial pressure. “I’m broke, it’s official,” Luciani reportedly told Fagioli, who continued to ask for money. In another message, Luciani mentioned he might need to “sell his shares” to provide further help.
Luciani could face disciplinary measures from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). Federation rules require referees to disclose any personal ties with players they might officiate. Authorities claim Luciani did not follow this rule.
Allegations of Money Laundering and Financial Fraud
The Guardia di Finanza, Italy’s financial police, have seized €1.5 million in assets from individuals involved in the case. The charges include illegal gambling, money laundering, and financial fraud.
Some people connected to the ring claim they were misled by Fagioli, who allegedly presented the deals as legitimate investments in luxury watches.
While sports sanctions will only apply if players are proven to have bet on football matches, criminal charges could still be brought against those involved in the wider betting operation.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the scandal continues to send shockwaves through Italian football.
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