Lucas Paqueta Cleared of Spot-Fixing After FA Probe
Lucas Paqueta has been cleared of spot-fixing allegations following a lengthy investigation by the Football Association (FA).
The 27-year-old West Ham winger had faced the prospect of a lifetime ban after being accused of deliberately picking up bookings in four English Premier League matches between November 2022 and August 2023 to influence betting markets.
An independent regulatory commission ruled the charges were not proven, ending almost two years of uncertainty for Paqueta. However, he was found guilty of failing to fully cooperate with the FA’s inquiry, with a sanction for that breach to be decided.
“Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations,” the Brazil international said in an official club statement on Thursday, 31 July. “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.”
Hammers vice-chair Karren Brady praised Paqueta’s professionalism during the ordeal, adding that the club had “resolutely stood by him and supported him throughout the process.”
Paqueta’s lawyer, Alastair Campbell, said his client had shown “remarkable strength and resilience” while fighting to clear his name. The FA will publish the independent commission’s written reasons before confirming any further action.
Image Credit: Source
