During the proceedings, the FA also accused Paquetá of failing to comply with "his obligations to answer questions and provide information to the investigation," pursuant to Rule F3. In this case, the Regulatory Commission found the allegations proven, and the midfielder should be fined.
Paquetá was charged in May 2024, and the hearing began in March and concluded in June. West Ham wanted the proceedings to be concluded more quickly to determine whether they would have to resort to the transfer market to replace him in the event of a severe punishment.
He was charged with four alleged breaches of FA Rule E5.1 in relation to his conduct during the club's Premier League matches against Leicester on November 12, 2022; Aston Villa on March 12, 2023; Leeds United on May 21, 2023; and Bournemouth on August 12, 2023.
"It has been alleged that Lucas Paquetá attempted to directly influence the progress, conduct or any other aspect or occurrence of these matches by intentionally attempting to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market so that one or more persons could profit from betting. Lucas Paquetá has denied the allegations against him, and the Regulatory Commission has found them unsubstantiated following a hearing," the Football Association (FA) said.
Regarding the decision, West Ham United Vice-Chair Karren Brady said: “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."
Lucas Paquetá commented: “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.”
Now, West Ham will decide whether to continue with the 28-year-old athlete as a mainstay in the squad or whether to put him on the market in order to raise money from a potential transfer.
Source: GMB
