Paquetá Cleared of Spot-Fixing: FA Investigation Under Fire, Brazilian International Threatens Legal Action

West Ham United F.C. and Brazil midfielder Lucas Paquetá has been exonerated of serious spot-fixing allegations after a rigorous independent commission review, but the fallout is far from over, with the Football Association (FA) of England facing harsh criticism and potential legal action from the player.

Lucas Paquetá is thinking about suing the FA, the governing body of association football in England, after written explanations were given for the acquittal of spot-fixing betting accusations. The commission heard that the FA couldn’t locate any record of betting-related comments on the players’ two phones. Paqueta was punished for not cooperating with the first FA investigation.

Commission Clears Paquetá, FA Decides Not to Appeal

In a detailed 314-page ruling — believed to be one of the longest in sports history — an independent regulatory commission concluded that there was no credible evidence that Paquetá intentionally sought yellow cards to influence betting markets. Consequently, all four spot-fixing charges were declared “not proven” and dismissed.

The FA confirmed it wouldn’t appeal the commission’s findings.

FA Investigation Widely Criticized

The commission’s written reasons were scathing, identifying multiple flaws in the FA’s handling of the case.

The FA relied on its own in-house investigator rather than an independent expert, a decision labeled “an obvious flaw” that undermined the credibility of their case. A betting expert from Stats Perform, who gave unfavorable testimony about Paquetá’s on-field behavior, was noted to have a commercial relationship with the FA, raising doubts about objectivity.

There were inconsistencies and mixed messaging from FA lawyers regarding their main witness’s conclusions on betting patterns. Criticism was also directed at the FA for showing minimal interest in Paquetá’s own testimony during the investigation, despite the serious nature of the allegations.

Misconduct Findings Still Stand

While cleared of spot-fixing, the commission upheld two lesser counts against the Brazilian international (55 caps, 11 goals) relating to non-compliance with the FA’s investigation—specifically, failing to provide information or answer questions.

These infractions could result in a fine or reprimand, though no ban is expected.

Potential Legal and Career Fallout

Paquetá is now exploring legal action against the FA, with his legal team reviewing options to seek damages for reputational harm and career setbacks, including the collapse of a possible £85 million transfer to Manchester City.

The lengthy and public nature of the FA’s investigation not only tarnished his image but may have also cost him financial opportunities.

Club Support and Looking Ahead

West Ham, the London club that’s among the biggest candidates to get relegated from the Premier League at the end of the season, according to the odds of any best Premier League betting site, and Paquetá himself have remained steadfast throughout the ordeal. Club vice-chair Karren Brady praised his professionalism, while Paquetá has continued to perform on the pitch.

With the FA officially closed on this matter and public scrutiny mounting, the future may hinge on whether the FA faces legal repercussions and whether or not reforms will follow to prevent similar investigatory failures.