By: Kwame Bediako
West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been cleared of four alleged breaches of betting rules following an independent Regulatory Commission hearing, the Football Association (FA) announced on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
The 27-year-old was previously charged with intentionally seeking bookings during four Premier League matches in 2022 and 2023, accusations he strongly denied.
The FA had alleged that Paqueta deliberately tried to receive bookings in those games to influence the progress or conduct of the matches in order to manipulate the betting market for others’ benefit.
However, after a thorough examination of the evidence and a formal hearing, the Regulatory Commission found the charges against him to be “not proven.”
In its statement, the FA confirmed, “Paqueta denied the charges against him and a Regulatory Commission found them to be not proven following a hearing.” This ruling clears the midfielder of any wrongdoing in connection with the specific betting rule breaches initially raised against him.
Despite this, Paqueta faces two separate charges related to alleged failures to comply with obligations during the FA’s investigation. These concerns accusations that he did not fully cooperating by failing to answer questions and provide information as required.
The outcomes of these charges are yet to be determined. The verdict marks a significant development for Paqueta as he continues his career at West Ham United.
The club and player now await further clarity on the outstanding charges, but the dismissal of the betting manipulation allegations comes as a relief amid a high-profile inquiry in English football.
