The independent Regulatory Commission of the English Football Association (FA) has decided to acquit Lucas Paquetá of the main charge related to alleged attempts to manipulate Premier League matches.
The decision, announced this Thursday, ensured that the Brazilian player did not commit any infractions related to Rule E5.1. Therefore, he is fully cleared to play and there is no appeal.
However, the commission found the charge of violating Rule F3, which addresses the obligation to cooperate with investigations, to be valid. The commission concluded that Paquetá failed to respond adequately to questions and failed to submit requested documents. Therefore, the commission will impose a fine and will disclose the amount in the coming days.
FA investigated cards received by Lucas Paquetá in four matches
The suspicions involved matches against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth. Paquetá received a yellow card in all four matches. The FA believed the player had acted intentionally to provoke punishment in order to favor third-party bets.
These incidents occurred between November 2022 and August 2023. The investigation sought to determine whether the player violated Rule E5.1, which prohibits influencing the course of a match for an improper purpose, including winnings from sports betting.
According to the initial accusation, the athlete had attempted to directly influence the course of the games by deliberately seeking warnings from the referee.
The Regulatory Commission, however, concluded that there was insufficient evidence to confirm the attempted match-fixing. Therefore, the case was closed without the player being punished for these infractions.
Lucas Paquetá has always denied the accusations
From the beginning of the case, Paquetá maintained a firm defense stance. When the investigation became public, he stated that he would cooperate with authorities and fight to prove his innocence.
Shortly after the decision was announced, the player posted a message on social media.
“The enemy will come against us one way, but they will flee for seven ways. From the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these very serious accusations.
I can’t say anything more right now, but I also can’t express how grateful I am to God and how much I’m looking forward to playing football again with a smile on my face.
To my wife who never let go of my hand, to West Ham, to the fans who always supported me, to Fernando Malta and my legal team at Level (Alastair Campbell, Jonathan Hyman, Dan Lowen), Nick de Marco KC, and Kendrah Potts—thank you for everything. All glory and honor be to God! — published Paquetá.
The club followed the case and reinforced its support
During the 14-month investigation, West Ham United publicly supported the player. The club was hoping for a quick resolution to determine whether it would need to seek reinforcements if a suspension were confirmed.
With the case closed, Paquetá will be able to continue with the team for the 2025/2026 season. His future, however, remains uncertain, as other clubs have expressed interest in signing him. However, without legal or sporting impediments, the player is free to negotiate.
West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady also spoke out: “We are pleased that Lucas has been exonerated. He has maintained his innocence from the beginning, and as a club, we have firmly supported him throughout the process.
Despite the incredible pressure on him, Lucas has excelled week after week for the club, always giving his all.
It’s been a difficult time for Lucas and his family, but he has remained absolutely professional throughout and is now looking forward to bringing this episode to a close, as is everyone at West Ham United.”
Fine for inappropriate conduct during the investigation
Despite the acquittal on the main charges, the Regulatory Commission confirmed that Paquetá violated FA Rule F3. This rule requires anyone subject to an investigation to provide clarification and documents requested. The commission concluded that the athlete breached this obligation and decided to impose a fine.
The commission will determine the financial penalty in the coming days. Even so, the case has a minor impact, as the player will continue to play without restrictions. The decision officially closes the case filed against Paquetá in May 2024.
