Former ski idol Alberto Tomba, one of Italy's greatest post-war sporting heroes, will go on trial in March 2000 for tax fraud.

Investigating magistrate Leonardo Grassi also said six of seven others accused in the affair will also go on trial, including the ex-Olympic champion's father, Franco. The seventh, Tomba's mother Maria Grazia Della Mora, has been cleared.

Tomba is accused of failing to enter some 23 billion lire (£9.6 million approximately) on his tax returns from 1990 to 1996. He risks up to five years in jail if convicted.