Lucas Paqueta cleared of all wrongdoing by The FA in two-year betting charge investigation

Lucas Paqueta has been exonerated by the Football Association after a lengthy two-year probe into claims he intentionally got booked in four separate matches.

The FA have now disclosed that an independent panel concluded there was insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations - although the West Ham and Brazil midfielder has been charged for not cooperating with the FA's inquiry.

Initiated in August 2023, the FA's investigation centred on suspicions of spot-fixing involving the Hammers' creative force during Premier League games spanning from November 2022 to August 2023. Paqueta was formally accused in May 2024, and the hearing, which experienced delays, spanned from March to June this year.

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While it was never insinuated that Paqueta himself placed bets, there were claims that his acquaintances and relatives in Brazil gained financially from wagers on him receiving yellow cards. The spectre of a potential lifetime ban loomed over the Brazilian should the findings have been adverse.

Yet, with the recent announcement that he has been cleared, Paqueta stated: "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," reports the Mirror.

"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."

Alastair Campbell, a partner at London-based law firm Level, has been leading Paqueta's legal defence throughout his fight to vindicate himself.

Campbell commented: "Few cases carry the gravity of this one - professionally, personally and emotionally for our client. Lucas has faced down immense pressure with remarkable strength and resilience.

"Level is delighted that we've been able to help demonstrate that Lucas' integrity as a player and a person is in no doubt. Now, he can finally get back to focusing on the things that matter most to him - playing football and being with his family."

The yellow cards under investigation were issued during matches against Leicester in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds in May 2023 and Bournemouth in August 2023.

When charges were brought against him, The FA alleged that Paqueta had tried 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."

He faced additional charges for failing to comply with the investigation, which the commission substantiated. The FA has called for "an appropriate sanction for these breaches at the earliest opportunity."

West Ham United's Vice-Chair Karren Brady commented: "We are pleased Lucas has been cleared. He has maintained his innocence from the outset, and as a club we have resolutely stood by him and supported him throughout the process.

"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 and he is now looking forward to drawing a line under this episode, as is everyone at West Ham United."