Lucas Paqueta has been exonerated by the Football Association after a lengthy two-year investigation into allegations that he intentionally received yellow cards in four separate matches. The FA disclosed that an independent panel concluded there was insufficient evidence to support the claims, although the West Ham and Brazil midfielder has been charged for not cooperating with the FA’s inquiry.
Initiated in August 2023, the FA’s investigation focused on suspicions of spot-fixing involving Paqueta during Premier League matches from November 2022 to August 2023. He was formally accused in May 2024, and the hearing, which faced delays, lasted from March to June of this year.
While it was never suggested that Paqueta placed bets himself, there were claims that his friends and relatives in Brazil financially benefited from wagers on him receiving yellow cards. The specter of a potential lifetime ban loomed over him had the findings been unfavorable.
“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.”
Alastair Campbell, a partner at London-based law firm Level, has been leading Paqueta’s legal defense throughout his efforts to clear his name. Campbell stated, “Few cases carry the gravity of this one—professionally, personally, and emotionally for our client. Lucas has faced immense pressure with remarkable strength and resilience. Level is delighted that we’ve demonstrated Lucas’ integrity as a player and a person is beyond doubt. Now, he can finally focus on what matters most—playing football and being with his family.”
The yellow cards under investigation were issued during matches against Leicester in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds in May 2023, and Bournemouth in August 2023. When charges were brought against him, the FA alleged that Paqueta attempted to “influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market for the profit of others.”
Karren Brady, the vice-chair of West Ham United, said, “We are happy that 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. Despite the incredible pressure on him, Lucas has performed week in and week out for the club, always giving everything. It has been a difficult time for Lucas and his family, but he has remained absolutely professional throughout. He is now looking forward to drawing a line under this episode, as is everyone at West Ham United.”
