Lucas Paquetá Faces Lifetime Ban over New Betting Allegations
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paquetá is facing the possibility of a lifetime ban from soccer due to fresh accusations that have come out of an ongoing Football Association (FA) investigation into betting-related misconduct.
West Ham’s Lucas Paquetá facing lifetime ban over betting allegations.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The Brazilian international was already under scrutiny over claims he was involved in influencing bookings during four Premier League matches to sway betting outcomes. According to The Sun, the FA has now brought two additional charges against Paquetá, claiming that he failed to assist the investigation adequately.
Suspicious Betting on Yellow Cards in 2023/24 Season
The controversy is the result of suspicious betting patterns related to Paquetá’s yellow cards in games against Leicester, Aston Villa, Leeds, and Bournemouth during the 2023/24 season. The FA believes Paquetá deliberately sought yellow cards in these matches, with nearly 60 individuals in Brazil reportedly placing bets ranging from $9 to $522 on him receiving a booking.
The bets resulted in approximately $130,460 in winnings. Throughout the investigation, Paquetá has consistently maintained his innocence, denying any involvement in match-fixing.
The latest charges focus on how Paquetá handled a cell phone that the FA had confiscated during the investigation. In the previous year, investigators had examined his text messages, phone records, and financial transactions for evidence. The FA returned the device after holding it for two months but later requested it again to review further information. By then, Paquetá had disposed of the phone, and the FA has since accused him of hindering the investigation, resulting in two charges for failing to cooperate.
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Paquetá Still Playing for West Ham While Awaiting 2025 Hearing
Despite the serious nature of these allegations, Paquetá is continuing to play for West Ham while he awaits a formal hearing, which is scheduled for March 2025. A final verdict is not expected until the summer, allowing Paquetá to remain on the field for the rest of the season. Many believe his performance has been hindered by the weight of the legal battle, but he did score in West Ham’s 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town last weekend.
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui has publicly supported Paquetá, commending his commitment and professionalism despite the looming threat of a lifetime ban. Lopetegui added that he prefers to focus on football rather than the ongoing legal situation. Paquetá remains adamant that he is innocent and has vowed to fight the accusations at every opportunity.
With the case still ongoing, the FA has refrained from making any official statements. However, reports from multiple sources suggest the FA is pushing for severe consequences, including the possibility of banning Paquetá from soccer for life. The investigation has also prevented Paquetá’s proposed $90 million transfer to Manchester City, despite both clubs having reached an agreement on the deal.
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