West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is expected to avoid punishment, with the Football Association’s ruling on his long-running betting case now close, Afrosport reports.
The Brazilian has been under investigation since August 2023, after allegations surfaced that he deliberately picked up bookings in order to influence betting markets.
The probe centred around four Premier League fixtures — against Leicester City (November 2022), Aston Villa (March 2023), Leeds United (May 2023), and Bournemouth (August 2023). The bets in question are understood to have been placed by friends and family, totalling around 60 wagers, all reportedly for small stakes.
The 27-year-old was formally charged in May 2024 with four counts of spot-fixing, with two further charges added for allegedly failing to cooperate with the investigation. However, he has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
“I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me,” said Paqueta in a statement after he was charged. “For nine months, I have cooperated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can.
“I deny the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name. Due to the ongoing process, I will not be providing any further comment.”
A disciplinary hearing began in March, with reports claiming the FA had been pushing for a lifetime ban. However, Paqueta is now expected to walk away without facing any significant sanctions.
The FA’s final verdict has reportedly been shared with those involved and is set to be made public in the coming days.
Paqueta joined the Hammers from Lyon in August 2022 and made an instant impact, helping the club lift the Europa Conference League in his debut campaign.
He has since made 120 appearances, scoring 18 goals and registering 14 assists, including four goals in 33 Premier League outings last term.
