In a significant development for English football, West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been definitively cleared of all spot-fixing charges following an extensive and rigorous investigation by the Football Association (FA).
The Brazil international faced serious allegations, including intentionally seeking to ‘receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market’, a claim he vehemently denied from the outset, consistently maintaining his innocence throughout the protracted process.
The saga began with the initial investigation in August 2023, escalating to formal charges in May 2024, with the full hearing commencing in March of the current year, drawing considerable attention across the Premier League.
Upon hearing the verdict, Paqueta expressed profound gratitude, stating, “Since the first day, I have maintained my innocence,” and extended thanks to his wife, West Ham United fans, his family, friends, and the dedicated legal team who provided unwavering support.
The serious spot-fixing offences he was accused of involved four specific Premier League matches: against Leicester City in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds United in May 2023, and Bournemouth last August, each instance scrutinised meticulously by the FA investigation.
West Ham United issued a statement reaffirming their steadfast support for Lucas Paqueta since the very beginning of what they described as a long and difficult ordeal, highlighting his unwavering professionalism despite the personal and professional challenges.
Despite the primary charges being dismissed, the FA did find two charges against Paqueta relating to a failure to co-operate with its investigation to be proven, aspects which the player also contested.
Alastair Campbell, partner at law firm Level and head of Paqueta’s legal team, underscored the immense pressure and gravity of the case, remarking on its profound professional, personal, and emotional toll on their client, making the clearance a monumental relief for the player and his club.
This resolution allows Paqueta and West Ham United to finally draw a line under this contentious episode, enabling the talented midfielder to fully focus on his football career, free from the shadow of these severe allegations, and continue contributing to the Premier League with West Ham.
