West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta no longer faces spot-fixing charges. An independent FA regulatory commission found the accusations “not proven” after a lengthy investigation.
The FA began the inquiry in August 2023. In May 2024, it charged Paqueta with allegedly receiving yellow cards on purpose to influence betting outcomes.
Four Matches Under Scrutiny
Paqueta, 27, was under the spotlight for bookings in four Premier League games:
- Leicester City (12 Nov 2022): Booked for a lunge on Soumare in the 60th minute.
- Aston Villa (12 Mar 2023): Booked for a challenge on McGinn with the score at 1-1.
- Leeds United (21 May 2023): Booked after pulling back Summerville at 1-1.
- Bournemouth (12 Aug 2023): Booked for a 94th-minute handball in a 1-1 draw.
The commission ruled that the evidence did not prove wrongdoing. If found guilty, Paqueta could have received a lifetime ban.
He responded with relief: “Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations,” he said.
“I can’t say anything more at this time, but I would like to express how grateful I am to God and how eager I am to return to playing football with a smile on my face. To my wife who never let go of my hand, to West Ham United, to the fans who always cheered me on, and to my family, friends and the legal team who have supported me – thank you for everything.”
His lawyer Alastair Campbell told BBC Radio 5 Live that Paqueta felt “very emotional and very delighted” and that “an enormous weight” had lifted from his shoulders.
Guilty of Non-Cooperation
While he escaped the fixing charges, the commission found him guilty of breaching FA Rule F3. He did not fully comply with document requests under Rule F2. The FA said it would issue a sanction soon but is waiting for the full written report.
Fallout From the Investigation
Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon in August 2022 for £36.5 million. He helped the club win the Europa Conference League in his first season. He was close to a £85 million transfer to Manchester City in 2023, but the FA probe halted the deal.
Campbell said there “certainly” could be legal action regarding the failed transfer. They will review the final decision before making a move.
Support from Family and Club
Throughout the ordeal, Paqueta received support from West Ham and his loved ones. Club vice-chair Karren Brady said, “It has been a difficult time for Lucas and his family, but he has remained absolutely professional throughout and he is now looking forward to drawing a line under this episode, as is everyone at West Ham United.”
In May, Paqueta broke down in tears after a yellow card against Tottenham. His wife Maria Fournier posted that the family had “been living this nightmare for two years.”
Paqueta played 33 Premier League matches in the 2024–25 season, scoring four goals. With the charges cleared, he now hopes to return to the pitch and focus fully on football.
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