Lucas Paqueta has been sanctioned by the Football Association (FA) for "two proven breaches" following their investigation into alleged spot-fixing. The West Ham United and Brazil midfielder was cleared of four spot-fixing charges by an independent commission in July – almost two years after English football's governing body launched their investigation.
Paqueta was cleared of four spot-fixing charges in July
The FA began their investigation in August 2023 and Paqueta was charged in May 2024 for allegedly getting booked deliberately "for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market".
The four charges against the 28-year-old related to a Premier League game against Leicester City on 12 November 2022, alongside 2023 fixtures against Aston Villa on 12 March, Leeds United on 21 May and Bournemouth on 12 August.
Former Lyon midfielder Paqueta was faced with the prospect of a lifetime ban if found guilty. However, the regulatory commission found the four charges to be "not proven" following the hearing.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportBrazil midfielder thanked West Ham after he was cleared
After the verdict in July, Paqueta said: ”Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations.
"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.”
Paqueta has now been sanctioned by FA for 'two breaches'
But Paqueta has now been sanctioned for "failing to comply with a requirement to answer questions and provide information to The FA’s investigation into breaches of the Rules".
Paqueta had denied the two charges, however both breaches of FA Rule F3 were found proven following a hearing. The regulatory commission has imposed a reprimand and a warning over Paqueta’s future conduct.
West Ham say they are pleased the case 'is finally closed'
Following the news, West Ham said they were pleased the investigation "is now finally closed".
A statement on the club's official website reads: "West Ham United acknowledges the statement published by the Football Association today, confirming that Lucas Paqueta has received a warning as to his future conduct, following two proven breaches of FA rule F3, after he was cleared of misconduct charges made against him for alleged breaches of FA rule E5.
"West Ham United and Lucas Paqueta are pleased that this matter is now finally closed. The Club will be making no further comment."