Explosive Betting Scandal: West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta Faces FA Hearing Over Alleged Spot-Fixing
West Ham United’s star midfielder Lucas Paqueta is at the center of a gripping betting scandal, with the latest allegations against him being particularly dire. According to a report by the Mirror, a Brazilian inquiry has uncovered explosive details behind the reason for one of Paqueta’s eyebrow-raising yellow cards.
The government report alleges that the 27-year-old told an intermediary he would receive a booking as a birthday present for his brother, Matheus Paqueta. This revelation has led to Paqueta facing an FA hearing next month over alleged spot-fixing.
Despite consistently denying any wrongdoing, the latest revelations come from a 692-page report by a Brazilian Senate Commission. The report also recommended criminal charges for Paqueta’s uncle, Bruno Tolentino, and two other businessmen linked to a betting ring.
Investigators Suspect Game Manipulation, But No Criminal Charges in Brazil
Investigators in Brazil suspect the West Ham star of game manipulation, but they have confirmed that Paqueta will not face criminal charges in his homeland. However, the FA continues to probe allegations that Paqueta deliberately received yellow cards in four Premier League matches against Leicester City in 2022 and Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth in 2023.
According to the inquiry, Paqueta allegedly informed an intermediary, Marlon Bruno Nascimento Silva, that he planned to mark his brother’s birthday with a booking during West Ham’s clash with Aston Villa on March 12. Paqueta was indeed shown a yellow card midway through the second half of that game.
Meanwhile, Tolentino is accused of orchestrating spot-fixing payments, including bribes to winger Luiz Henrique while he was at Real Betis. Tolentino faces a potential six-year prison sentence, with the inquiry detailing five separate payments totaling R$97,000 (£13,500) as part of the operation.
An estimated 60 individuals reportedly placed bets on Paqueta to receive yellow cards in the matches under investigation. The suspicious betting patterns first raised concerns with West Ham’s former sponsor, Betway, which flagged the activity to the authorities.
Paqueta could face the harshest of penalties – a lifetime ban from football – if found guilty by the FA. This bombshell revelation has put West Ham in a difficult position, as they must potentially plan for life without their star midfielder.
As the investigation continues, the Hammers may be forced to explore alternative options to fill the void left by Paqueta. Potential replacements could include Manchester City’s James McAtee or Mohammed Kudus, both of whom have been linked with the London club.
Call to Action: This developing story is sure to have a significant impact on the Premier League and West Ham United. Stay tuned for further updates as the FA investigation unfolds.
