Lucas Paqueta CLEARED by The FA after two-year investigation and escapes lifetime ban

Lucas Paqueta has been cleared of betting breaches by the Football Association following a two-year investigation into accusations that he deliberately received yellow cards in four different fixtures.

The FA have now confirmed that an independent commission found that the charges could not be proven - though the West Ham and Brazil star has been charged with a separate violation for failing to comply with the FA's investigation.

The FA launched its investigation back in August 2023 following allegations that the West Ham playmaker was involved in spot-fixing offences across four Premier League matches that took place between November 2022 and August 2023. He was officially charged in May 2024 and a hearing, which was delayed while in progress, took place between March and June of this year.

Although there was never a suggestion that Paqueta placed any bets himself, it was alleged that friends and family in Brazil profited after betting on yellow cards for the midfielder. The Brazilian faced the prospect of a lifetime ban if the verdict went against him.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Man Utd open Sesko talks, Liverpool to make Isak move, Arsenal learn Eze demands

READ MORE: One transfer all 20 Premier League clubs WILL make with one month of summer window to go

But following confirmation that he has not been found guilty, Paqueta said: “Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations. 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.”

Alastair Campbell, a partner at London law firm Level, is the head of Paqueta's legal team and has acted on behalf of the Brazilian throughout his battle to clear his name.

Campbell said: “Few cases carry the gravity of this one - professionally, personally and emotionally for our client. Lucas has faced down immense pressure with remarkable strength and resilience.

"Level is delighted that we’ve been able to help demonstrate that Lucas’ integrity as a player and a person is in no doubt. Now, he can finally get back to focusing on the things that matter most to him - playing football and being with his family.”

The yellow cards that were probed came in matches against Leicester in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds in May 2023 and Bournemouth in August 2023.

At the time of charging him, The FA said that Paqueta allegedly attempted to "influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of, or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting."

He was also charged with two counts of failing to comply with their investigation - which was proven by the commission. The FA said "an appropriate sanction for these breaches at the earliest opportunity."

West Ham United Vice-Chair Karren Brady added: “We are pleased Lucas has been cleared. He has maintained his innocence from the outset, and as a club we have resolutely stood by him and supported him throughout the process.

"Despite the incredible pressure on him, Lucas has performed week in and week out for the club, always giving everything. 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."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.