FA reveal final decision on Paqueta's betting probe

An independent regulatory commission, convened after a lengthy FA investigation, ruled that the four charges against the Brazil international were "not proven". Full written reasons, released on Wednesday, have raised eyebrows by highlighting the FA's failure to seek independent expert analysis regarding crucial betting data.

The investigation into Paqueta began in August 2023, and in May the following year, he was formally charged with deliberately receiving bookings to influence betting outcomes. The allegations concerned four specific Premier League fixtures against Leicester City (12 November 2022), Aston Villa (12 March 2023), Leeds United (21 May 2023), and Bournemouth (12 August 2023).

In addition to the spot-fixing accusations, the 28-year-old faced two further charges for allegedly failing to co-operate with the investigation. Unlike the betting charges, these were found to be proven by the commission.

A statement from the FA read: The regulatory commission will determine an appropriate sanction for the breaches of FA Rule F3, with full details to be published at the earliest opportunity. The FA remains committed to preserving the integrity of football. Comprehensive investigations will continue to be carried out whenever serious allegations of rule violations arise."

Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon in August 2022 and has scored 21 goals in 124 appearances for the Hammers. He led them to UEFA Conference League glory in his debut season and scored in their 3-0 win at Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Saturday.