West Ham’s Paqueta Cleared Of Betting Charges

West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been exonerated from spot-fixing allegations by an independent regulatory commission, the club announced on Thursday, July 31.

The Brazilian international had been confronted with four charges filed by the Football Association (FA) regarding alleged efforts to manipulate match results for betting purposes.

The 27-year-old was accused of intentionally attempting to receive yellow cards in Premier League games to affect betting markets. Paqueta rejected all charges, and following a hearing, the independent commission determined that the allegations were not substantiated.

Although the spot-fixing charges were dropped, the FA noted that two separate charges, concerning Paqueta’s lack of cooperation with the investigation, were sustained. A disciplinary commission will decide on the appropriate penalties for those violations in due time.

In a statement issued through West Ham, Paqueta expressed relief and reaffirmed his stance: “I have always maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations.”

West Ham vice-chair Karren Brady celebrated the decision. “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,” she said.

The midfielder is anticipated to shift his full attention back to football as the new Premier League season nears, with West Ham having supported their player throughout the prolonged investigation.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli