Lucas Paquetá Cleared of Spot-Fixing Allegations, Faces Penalty for Non-Cooperation
West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá has been cleared of spot-fixing allegations by an independent regulatory commission, ending months of uncertainty over accusations that the Brazilian deliberately got booked to influence betting markets. However, he may still face disciplinary action for failing to fully cooperate with the Football Association’s (FA) investigation.
FA Investigation: The Background
The English FA launched a probe into Paquetá after suspicions emerged over yellow cards he received during four Premier League matches between November 2022 and August 2023. The matches in question were against:
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Leicester City
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Aston Villa
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Leeds United
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AFC Bournemouth
The FA suspected the bookings were part of a spot-fixing scheme, where players allegedly influence minor outcomes (such as receiving a card) to benefit illegal betting markets.
Spot-Fixing Charges “Not Proven”
Following a lengthy investigation and a hearing in May 2025, the independent commission ruled the spot-fixing charges as “not proven”, clearing Paquetá of any wrongdoing related to manipulating game outcomes for betting purposes.
This decision is a significant relief for the 26-year-old midfielder, whose future in football — and with West Ham — was clouded by these serious accusations.
Sanction Still Possible for Lack of Cooperation
Despite being cleared of fixing matches, Paquetá has not escaped disciplinary consequences entirely. The commission found him guilty on two counts of failing to cooperate with the FA by not providing requested information and documents during the investigation.
The commission is now expected to meet again to decide on an appropriate sanction, which could range from a fine to a potential suspension.
Paquetá Responds: “I Have Maintained My Innocence”
Taking to Instagram, Paquetá expressed his relief and faith throughout the investigation, stating:
“The enemy will come against us one way, but they will flee seven ways. Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations.
I can’t say anything more now, but I also can’t express how grateful I am to God and how eager I am to return to playing football with a smile on my face.”
Support from West Ham and the Football Community
West Ham vice-chair Karren Brady welcomed the verdict, adding:
“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.”
Head coach Graham Potter, who revealed the case had taken a mental and physical toll on the player, also supported Paquetá during the ordeal. The Brazilian broke down in tears after being booked against Tottenham in May, highlighting the emotional strain of the investigation.
His wife, Maria Fournier, wrote at the time that they had been “living this nightmare for two years.”
Betting and Football: An Ongoing Battle
This case underscores the FA’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on match-fixing and betting violations. Monitoring agencies now track betting market movements and match them to on-field incidents, with data often used as admissible evidence in legal proceedings.
Notable recent cases include:
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Ivan Toney (Brentford) – Banned for 8 months in May 2023 for betting breaches.
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Sandro Tonali (Newcastle) – Banned for 10 months for violating betting rules while in Italy, plus a suspended two-month ban from the FA.
FA rules strictly prohibit players, officials, and club staff from betting on any football-related events, regardless of whether they are directly involved in the match.
What’s Next for Lucas Paquetá?
While the spot-fixing cloud has been lifted, Paquetá’s fate still rests in the hands of the commission regarding his non-cooperation charges. However, with his name cleared from the most damaging allegation, he is likely to return to action soon — provided any upcoming sanction is minor.
With the 2025–26 Premier League season fast approaching, West Ham and their fans will be hoping to see Paquetá back in full form, leaving the controversy behind.
