West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is under scrutiny after being charged with breaching Football Association (FA) betting rules. The FA's investigation centers on claims that Paqueta intentionally received yellow cards to influence betting outcomes.
The charges span several Premier League matches: against Leicester in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds in May 2023, and Bournemouth in August 2023. Additionally, Paqueta faces two further charges for failing to comply with FA Rule F2.
Suspicious betting patterns were noted following Paqueta's booking during a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, prompting the FA's investigation. Paqueta has cooperated fully, providing the FA access to his phone.
An FA statement outlined the charges under Rules E5 and F3, alleging Paqueta sought to manipulate match events for betting profits. Paqueta has until June 3 to respond to the charges, with an option to request an extension.
In a statement on Instagram, Paqueta denied all allegations, expressing surprise and frustration, and pledging to clear his name. West Ham United has affirmed its support for Paqueta, committing to stand by him throughout the process and refraining from further comment until the issue is resolved.
