Lucas Paqueta sanctioned for two proven breaches of FA rules after spot-fixing case

An independent Regulatory Commission has punished West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta for two proven breaches of FA rule F3. In July, Paqueta was cleared of betting breaches by the FA after a two year investigation into accusation he deliberately received yellow cards in four different fixtures.

In September, the FA confirmed they would not appeal against those alleged breaches, which were round not proven by the Regulatory Commission. However, two breaches of FA Rule F3 on Paqueta's part were found proven.

He had denied two charges of failing to comply with a requirement to answer questions and provide other information to the FA during their investigation. The governing body released a statement this afternoon about his breaches of FA Rule F3.

They wrote: "An independent Regulatory Commission has sanctioned West Ham United FC’s Lucas Paqueta for two proven breaches of FA Rule F3.

"The player denied two charges of failing to comply with a requirement to answer questions and provide information to The FA ’s investigation into breaches of the Rules. However, both breaches of FA Rule F3 were found proven following a hearing.

"The Regulatory Commission has imposed a reprimand and a warning as to future conduct on Lucas Paqueta, and its written reasons for this decision can be read below."

West Ham also released a statement of their own in response to the FA. The club said: "West Ham United acknowledges the statement published by the Football Association today, confirming that Lucas Paquetá 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 Paquetá are pleased that this matter is now finally closed. The Club will be making no further comment."

In August 2023, the FA launched an investigation into the South American playmaker alleging he was involved in spot0fixing offences across four Premier League matches between November 2022 and August 2023.

There was never a suggestion he had placed any bets himself, but it was alleged his actions had benefitted friends and family in Brazil, who had placed bets on him being given a yellow card. If a verdict went against him, he would have faced the possibility of being handed a lifetime ban.

When he was cleared of those charges, he released a statement of his own, saying: "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.”