West Ham United midfielder, Lucas Paqueta, has been exonerated of spot-fixing allegations nearly two years after the Football Association initiated an inquiry into his conduct, according to BBC Sport.
The investigation began in August 2023, leading to formal charges in May 2024. The Brazil international was accused of deliberately receiving yellow cards in order to influence betting outcomes, a claim that, if upheld, could have resulted in a lifetime ban.
The charges stemmed from Premier League fixtures against Leicester City on 12 November 2022, and three matches in 2023, against Aston Villa (12 March), Leeds United (21 May), and Bournemouth (12 August). However, after reviewing the case, an independent regulatory commission ruled that all four charges of spot-fixing were “not proven.”
In addition to those allegations, Paqueta was also accused of breaching FA Rule F3, specifically two counts of failing to cooperate with the investigation by not fully complying under FA Rule F2, which pertains to the submission of documents and information.
While he denied those charges as well, the commission found them to be valid. A decision on the appropriate sanction is expected shortly.
“Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations,” said Paqueta.
“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.”
The 27-year-old, who previously played for AC Milan and Lyon, registered four goals in 33 league appearances for the Hammers in the 2024–25 season.
His emotional state became evident after being booked during a match against Tottenham in May, an incident that left him in tears. That same night, his wife Maria Fournier revealed on Instagram that they had “been living this nightmare for two years.”
Following the initial FA charge, Paqueta expressed shock and disappointment, stating he was “extremely surprised and upset.”
Paqueta moved to West Ham from Lyon in August 2022 in a deal worth £36.5 million and played a key role in their UEFA Europa Conference League triumph in his debut campaign.
West Ham vice-chair Karren Brady reacted positively to the outcome, noting the club had “resolutely stood by” their player throughout the ordeal.
“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,” she said.
