West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been charged by the Football Association (FA) for allegedly breaching betting rules. The FA claims that the 26-year-old Brazilian intentionally sought to receive bookings during four Premier League matches in 2022 and 2023 to manipulate the betting market.
In an official statement, the FA said, “It’s alleged that Paqueta directly sought to influence these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting.”
Paqueta, who has until June 3rd to respond to the charges, has denied any wrongdoing. Expressing his dismay on Instagram and X, he stated, “I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me. For nine months, I have cooperated fully with their investigation and provided all the information I can. I deny all the charges entirely and will fight with every breath to clear my name. Due to the ongoing process, I will not be providing any further comment.”
West Ham United has acknowledged the receipt of the charges and expressed their support for Paqueta. “The Club will continue to stand by and support the Player throughout the process and will make no further comment until the matter is concluded,” the club said in a statement.
Advertisement— Lucas Paquetá (@LucasPaqueta97) May 23, 2024
