Lucas Paqueta has been cleared of four violations of betting rules after an independent FA regulatory commission’s hearing. The decision was announced on Thursday, July 31st, which cleared the Brazilian international after a long-standing investigation which affected his future within the sport.
Paqueta was charged with deliberately looking to get yellow cards in four Premier League games, which took place between November 2022 and August 2023. The games in question were against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth. The Football Association alleged that Paqueta had tried to manipulate the outcome of betting markets by intentionally influencing in-game events.
Paqueta denied all charges from the start, maintaining his innocence throughout the process. The FA confirmed in their statement that the Regulatory Commission found the charges “not proven” following a full hearing.
“Paqueta denied the charges against him, and a Regulatory Commission found them to be not proven following a hearing,” read the FA statement.
However, Paqueta still faces two charges for allegedly failing to fully comply with the FA’s investigation. These relate to obligations to answer questions and provide requested information. The outcome of those charges remains pending.
In his response to the verdict, Paqueta expressed both relief and frustration over how the case had unfolded publicly.
“Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations,” he said in a statement. “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, West Ham United, the fans, and all who stood by me — thank you.”
West Ham United also issued a statement in support of their player. Vice-Chair Karren Brady said the club was pleased Paqueta had been cleared and commended his professionalism throughout the ordeal.
“Despite the incredible pressure on him, Lucas has performed week in and week out for the club, always giving everything,” Brady said.
Paqueta, a key figure for the Hammers, now looks to move forward and focus on the upcoming Premier League season. West Ham begin their 2025–26 campaign away to newly-promoted Sunderland on August 16, hoping to improve on last season’s disappointing 14th-place finish.
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