Lucas Paqueta: West Ham footballer accused of breaking betting regulations faces charges from the FA

Lucas Paqueta, a midfielder for West Ham, is accused of deliberately attempting to "receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market." The FA launched an inquiry after noticing unusual betting patterns in relation to an injury-time ticket he earned in a draw at Bournemouth.

The Football Association has charged the Brazil international, who maintains his innocence, for his actions during games against Leicester in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds in May 2023, and Bournemouth in August of last year.

"It's alleged that he directly sought to influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting," according to an FA statement.

In addition, Paqueta is accused of violating FA Rule F3 twice due to his supposed noncompliance with FA Rule F2, which deals with supplying documentation and information.

In a statement posted on X, the midfield player refuted the accusations, saying, "I am very surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me."

I have helped with every stage of their investigation for the past nine months and have given them all the information I am able to.

"I completely refute the accusations, and I'll do all in my power to clear my name. As the procedure is still in progress, I will not be making any more comments."