Misconduct charges “not proven” but player found guilty of failing to fully cooperate with the investigation
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been cleared of match-fixing charges by an independent commission.
The verdict brings an end to a 14-month investigation into match-fixing allegations that threatened to derail the Brazilian’s career.
Paqueta had been charged by the English Football Association in May 2024, accused of deliberately collecting yellow cards in four Premier League matches between late 2022 and mid-2023.
The FA alleged the cautions were part of an organised effort to manipulate betting markets.
The 27-year-old denied all wrongdoing and was found not guilty by an Independent Regulatory Commission this week. He was, however, found to have breached FA Rule F3 on two counts for failing to fully cooperate with the investigation.
The FA retains the right to appeal once written reasons are received.
Paqueta expressed his relief in a short statement issued via West Ham.
“Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations,” said Paqueta.
“I can’t say anything more at this time, but I would like to express how grateful I am to God and how eager I am to return to playing football with a smile on my face.
“To my wife who never let go of my hand, to West Ham United, to the fans who always cheered me on, and to my family, friends and the legal team who have supported me – thank you for everything.”
West Ham’s vice-chair Karren Brady, said: “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.”
