West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been cleared of four alleged betting rule breaches by the Football Association after an independent hearing.
The 27-year-old was accused of deliberately trying to get booked in four Premier League matches between November 2022 and August 2023, with the intention of influencing betting markets. Paqueta denied the charges.
The FA said the Regulatory Commission found the charges to be not proven.
Paqueta also faced charges for failing to fully cooperate with the FA’s investigation but denied any wrongdoing. He expressed frustration at misleading media coverage and maintained his innocence throughout.
He said, “Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations. I am grateful to God and eager to get back to playing football with a smile.”
West Ham’s vice-chair Karren Brady said the club supported Paqueta throughout and praised his professionalism despite the difficult situation.
West Ham will start their 2025/26 Premier League season at Sunderland on August 16th.
