West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is facing a potential lifetime ban from football after being charged with multiple breaches of the Football Association’s (FA) betting regulations.
The Brazilian international is set to undergo a three-week hearing this month, which is expected to be one of the longest proceedings in FA history.
The charges against Paqueta stem from allegations of spot-fixing in four Premier League matches. The FA accuses Paqueta of intentionally receiving yellow cards to manipulate betting markets for financial gain.
The matches in question include fixtures against Leicester City on November 12, 2022; Aston Villa on March 12, 2023; Leeds United on May 21, 2023; and AFC Bournemouth on August 12, 2023.
In addition to the spot-fixing charges, Paqueta faces further allegations of failing to comply with FA rules by not providing requested information and documents.
The investigation into Paqueta’s conduct included the confiscation of his phone for two months in 2023 to examine his messages, calls, and banking history.
Paqueta has vehemently denied the charges, stating, “I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me. For nine months, I have cooperated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can. I deny the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name”.
The FA and West Ham have declined to comment on the matter. However, sources close to Paqueta suggest he remains confident of proving his innocence and insists he has never placed a bet on football.
The outcome of the hearing could have significant implications for Paqueta’s career, with the FA pushing for the harshest possible sanction—a lifetime ban.
