West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta has received a formal warning from the Football Association (FA) for failing to fully cooperate with their investigation into alleged betting breaches — but avoided a fine due to mitigating circumstances.
The 28-year-old Brazil international was cleared in July of four serious charges alleging deliberate yellow cards in Premier League matches to influence betting markets. However, an independent regulatory commission found Paqueta guilty of two lesser breaches of FA Rule F3 for not fully complying with the FA’s requests during its investigation.
Cleared of Spot-Fixing Allegations
Paqueta had faced claims that he intentionally received bookings in four matches across 2022 and 2023. The FA alleged these cautions were made “for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market.”
After months of scrutiny, an independent panel dismissed the spot-fixing charges, ruling there was no evidence to suggest Paqueta deliberately manipulated matches. But the commission did find him guilty of failing to adequately cooperate with investigators.
Paqueta reportedly gave “no comment” answers to most questions in two separate FA interviews — both conducted before formal charges were brought.
Acting on Legal Advice
In written reasons released Friday, the commission acknowledged that Paqueta’s actions were guided entirely by legal advice from counsel appointed by West Ham.
“The player was acting on advice at all times but, nevertheless, as a participant he has an obligation to respect and abide by the regulations,” the panel said.
While a financial penalty was initially considered, the commission cited multiple mitigating factors — including Paqueta’s limited English proficiency and lack of legal training — for choosing only to issue a warning.
“It would be fanciful to expect the player to do anything other than follow the advice of his legal representatives,” the report read.
The commission also noted that Paqueta eventually complied by submitting a witness statement in December 2023 and allowing his mobile devices to be examined, which “did not ultimately frustrate the investigation.”
Mental Strain and Legal Costs Considered
The panel further recognized the “mental stress” Paqueta endured throughout the investigation, which spanned nearly a year. The report highlighted that Paqueta’s anxiety was heightened by the possibility that a guilty verdict on spot-fixing could have ended his career.
In addition, the “weighty legal fees” he incurred while defending himself were taken into account. The commission stated that these circumstances justified a more lenient outcome than a fine.
West Ham’s Struggles and Nuno’s Response
The news comes at a difficult time for West Ham, who currently sit 19th in the Premier League with just one win from nine matches. The team faces Newcastle United on Sunday at London Stadium as they look to climb out of the relegation zone.
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo admitted on Friday that the investigation had affected both the player and the squad.
“It doesn’t help,” Nuno said. “All the noise and the situation he’s been through doesn’t help anyone. Finally, it ends, but then the rumours of a move away start again. We have to protect ourselves and block out the noise.”
The Portuguese coach urged focus as speculation swirls about Paqueta’s future, with reports continuing to link the Brazilian with a potential move to Manchester City once his legal situation clears completely.
Looking Ahead
For now, Paqueta is expected to remain available for selection. The FA has warned him about future conduct, reminding him of his obligations under the association’s regulations.
While the case has officially concluded, the lengthy investigation has raised questions about the pressures placed on players facing disciplinary probes — and how language barriers and legal advice can complicate compliance.
For Paqueta and West Ham, the focus now shifts back to the pitch — and the fight to reverse their poor start to the season.
