FA Drops Charges of Match-Fixing Against Paqueta, Clearing Him from the Allegations
West Ham's Lucas Paqueta Cleared of Match-Fixing Allegations, Faces Sanction for Non-Cooperation
Lucas Paqueta, the West Ham United midfielder, has been exonerated of match-fixing charges following an extensive investigation by the Football Association (FA), which began in late 2022. Despite being accused of intentionally earning yellow cards to influence betting markets in four separate Premier League matches, Paqueta maintained his innocence throughout the process.
However, the FA's independent regulatory commission confirmed that they could not prove Paqueta's guilt under Rule E5.1, which pertains to match-fixing or deliberate attempts to influence betting markets. Instead, Paqueta was found in breach of FA Rule F3, which requires full cooperation with investigations.
Karen Brady, West Ham's vice-chair, commented on the toll the investigation took on Paqueta and the team. Brady expressed relief that the investigation is over and praised Paqueta's professionalism and performance despite the distractions. She also commended his key contributions for both his national team and club.
In a message posted on Instagram, Paqueta thanked his legal team, West Ham, and his family for their support throughout the investigation. He did not provide any further details about the FA investigation in his post.
The FA will announce the appropriate punishment for Paqueta's violations of FA Rule F3 "at the earliest opportunity." Although the exact timing of when the sanction for failure to cooperate will be announced has not been specified yet, it is anticipated that any punishment may be a fine.
Paqueta scored a goal in West Ham's 2-1 pre-season win over Everton shortly before the FA's update was announced. The news comes as a relief for both Paqueta and West Ham, as they prepare for the upcoming season.
[1] FA Confirms Lucas Paqueta Not Guilty of Match-Fixing Charges, But Faces Sanctions for Non-Cooperation (The Guardian, July 31, 2025) [2] Lucas Paqueta Cleared of Match-Fixing Allegations, Faces Sanction for Non-Cooperation (BBC Sport, July 31, 2025) [3] FA Investigation into Lucas Paqueta's Actions Concludes (The Athletic, July 31, 2025) [4] West Ham's Lucas Paqueta Escapes Lifetime Ban, Faces Fine for FA Rule F3 Breach (Sky Sports, July 31, 2025)
Lucas Paqueta's football career in the European leagues, particularly the Premier League, may face a inconsequential hiccup as he awaits a potential sanction from the FA for breaching Rule F3, which concerns non-cooperation during investigations. Despite escaping match-fixing allegations, Paqueta's lack of cooperation could impact his sports analysis and performance moving forward.
