West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá has been sanctioned by the Football Association for breaching rules related to FA Article F3, concerning cooperation with investigations into alleged breaches of betting regulations. The decision follows a hearing where the FA determined Paquetá failed to answer questions and provide information during their probe.
The case centers on alleged breaches of betting rules, prompting an FA inquiry. While Paquetá denied the charges, an autonomous regulatory commission found both breaches of FA Article F3 proven. The commission acknowledged Paquetá acted on legal advice, consistently responding “no comment” during interviews on September 11, 2023, and November 10, 2023, but emphasized a participant’s obligation to comply with regulations. The FA anticipates any sanction will likely be a reprimand and a warning regarding future conduct.
According to documents summarizing the accusations, the regulatory commission stated, “We accept that the Player always acted following advice, but, nevertheless, as a Participant he has the obligation to respect and comply with the Regulations.” The FA hopes “any sanction will be light” and “a reprimand along with a warning about his future conduct.”
