West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has reportedly been cleared by an independent regulatory commission following a long-running investigation into alleged betting rule breaches.
According to an exclusive from The Times, sources close to the case say the Brazilian has been found not guilty, with an official announcement expected next week.
Details Behind the Lucas Paqueta Betting Investigation
The case has dragged on for nearly two years and was centred around suspicious yellow card incidents across several Premier League matches. The earliest of those dates all the way back to November 12, 2022, which was almost 1,000 days ago.
Despite the FA opening an investigation in 2023, Paqueta was not formally charged until May 2024. His hearing concluded on June 4, 2025. Since then, the commission has spent over 50 days reviewing the evidence before coming to this decision.
Earlier today, it was reported that we was due a decision on this situation.
What the Verdict Means for West Ham United
This outcome could have a big impact on West Ham’s summer. The club had put any potential sale or long-term planning involving Paqueta on pause while waiting for the ruling. Manchester City were previously ready to activate his release clause before the charges halted that move.
Now that he’s reportedly been cleared, West Ham must decide whether to build around him or cash in before the new season begins.
When Will the FA Confirm Paqueta’s Clearance?
While the verdict has not yet been made public, The Times reports that an announcement from the FA is expected sometime next week. West Ham are said to have already been informed.
After months of silence and speculation, this finally brings clarity. It could mean the return of one of West Ham’s most talented players to the heart of the squad, or it might put him back on the market.
Stay with HammerBytes for more as the FA prepares its official statement.
