West Ham United’s Lucas Paquetá has been found innocent against all spot-fixing allegations following a lengthy high-profile FA investigation – which is being described as deeply detrimental for the player.

The investigation could have led to a lifetime ban for the midfielder, but now an independent regulatory commission has ruled that the four betting-related charges brought against the Brazilian international were “not proven”. 

The case had centred on accusations that Paquetá deliberately received yellow cards in four Premier League matches to influence betting markets, a claim he has consistently denied.

Unprecedented scope

Originally set for a three-week hearing this summer, the case dates back to 2023 when suspicions were first raised over bookings received by the 27-year-old during fixtures against Leicester City (November 2022), Aston Villa (March 2023), Leeds United (May 2023) and Bournemouth (August 2023).

The FA charged the midfielder with four breaches of FA Rule E5.1, accusing him of attempting to “influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of, or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting”.

Although the commission did not find sufficient evidence to uphold those claims, it did support two additional charges relating to Paquetá’s failure to fully cooperate with the investigation – a point that may now result in a fine. However, no suspension or sanction is expected.

On the case, which is being described as one of the most extensive integrity cases in FA history, West Ham Vice Chair Karren Brady said: “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.”

The investigation was triggered by betting market monitoring systems, which flagged unusual patterns around bookings in multiple fixtures. The increasing role of data-led detection tools has become central to football’s integrity infrastructure, particularly during the rise of real-time micro-betting markets.

Internally shattering

Despite the looming threat of a career-ending ban and the collapse of an £85m transfer to Manchester City, the 27-year-old continued to play for both Brazil and West Ham.

After the latest verdict, Paquetá 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.”

As part of the inquiry, the FA confiscated Paquetá’s phone for two months to examine messages, calls and financial records. 

The device was later returned but then the governing body made a second request to inspect it. However, Paquetá had reportedly disposed of it by this time – a move the FA considered a failure to comply with procedures.

Meanwhile, Paquetá’s Lawyer, Alastair Campbell, emphasised: “Few cases carry the gravity of this one – professionally, personally and emotionally for our client,” he said. “Now, he can finally get back to focusing on the things that matter most to him – playing football and being with his family.”

Whilst the outcome brings an end to a saga that has hung over Paquetá’s playing career for over two years, the case also underscores the FA’s increasing scrutiny of betting integrity, and the legal complexities that come alongside it.

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