Lawyer for Lucas Paqueta undecided on potential legal action against Football Association
Lucas Paquetá Cleared of Spot-Fixing Charges, But Faces Minor Breaches
In a significant turn of events, the independent disciplinary commission has cleared Lucas Paquetá of the main spot-fixing allegations that had threatened his football career. However, the commission found him guilty of two minor breaches related to failing to cooperate with the FA's investigation.
The lengthy investigation into Paquetá's actions was due to the case being complicated and having an enormous amount of evidence on both sides. Despite the findings, no decision has been made yet on whether Paqueta will seek damages from the FA.
Yasin Patel, a sports barrister at Church Court Chambers, noted that the investigations and proceedings hanging over Paqueta could lead to commercial losses for both him and his club, West Ham United. The high legal costs could also make both parties inclined to sue to recoup funds.
Paqueta's lawyer, Alastair Campbell, expressed respect for the work of the FA and praised the mental strength of his client for playing on amidst the allegations. He also noted that the evidence against Paqueta was entirely circumstantial.
If Paquetas has an image rights company, they may seek compensation for the damage caused to his reputation during the investigation. The legal bills for both Paqueta and West Ham are estimated to be in excess of £1m.
The FA legal team, according to Campbell, have a difficult job and are good people. He did not criticize the FA for bringing charges against his client.
Paqueta's lawyer, Campbell, will wait to read the commission's written reasoning before deciding on a potential claim for damages. Sports lawyers suggest that the high legal costs could make Paqueta and West Ham inclined to sue to recoup funds.
In a related development, Paqueta was initially linked with a move to Manchester City for £85m, but the transfer never materialized due to the spot-fixing allegations. It remains to be seen how this clearance will impact his future in football.
As of the latest updates in August 2025, no lawsuit by Paqueta's legal team against the FA has been reported.
[1] Independent Disciplinary Commission Clears Lucas Paquetá of Spot-Fixing Charges [2] Legal Costs Estimated at £1m Following Spot-Fixing Investigation [3] FA Seeking Life Ban for Paquetá if Found Guilty of Spot-Fixing [4] Sports Barrister: Commercial Losses for Paquetá and United Due to Investigations [5] Paquetá's Lawyer: Evidence Against Client Entirely Circumstantial
- The clearance of Lucas Paquetá from the main spot-fixing allegations has opened up possibilities in the football market, possibly reviving talks about his transfer to clubs like Manchester City.
- Despite being cleared of the spot-fixing charges, Paquetá and his club West Ham United may face substantial commercial losses due to the lengthy and complicated nature of the investigation.
- In addition to the potential commercial losses, Paquetá and West Ham United might consider suing for damages to recoup the estimated £1m in legal costs incurred during the investigation, a suggestion made by sports lawyers.
