Paqueta Cleared of Betting Scandal but Faces Minor FA Charge | OneFootball

West Ham star escapes lifetime ban as FA drops major match fixing accusations

Paqueta Cleared of Betting Scandal but Faces Minor FA Charge

West Ham & Brazil star Lucas Paqueta has been officially cleared of match fixing allegations after nearly 2 year investigation by the English FA.

Match Fixing Case Dismissed

The probe launched in Aug 2023 revolved around suspicions that Paqueta deliberately earned yellow cards in 4 separate Premier League matches against Leicester (Nov 2022), Aston Villa (Mar 2023), Leeds (May 2023) and Bournemouth (Aug 2023) allegedly for betting purposes.

While it was never claimed Paqueta placed bets himself, reports suggested that relatives and friends in Brazil may have profited.

But on Wednesday, independent panel ruled there was insufficient evidence to prove intentional misconduct exonerating the midfielder from the most serious charge.

Still Faces Minor Charge

Despite the clearance, Paqueta now faces lesser charge for non cooperation during the investigation. The FA'll determine his punishment at later date.

Paqueta Reacts: "Grateful & Relieved"

The 26 year old expressed his relief:

Club Support

West Ham vice chair Karren Brady welcomed the verdict, stating: