West Ham Lucas Paqueta fined six-figure FA misconduct charges

West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been cleared of the most serious spot-fixing charges after a two-year FA investigation, but was found guilty of failing to cooperate fully with the probe by not answering questions and providing information. As a result, Paqueta faces a significant fine of approximately £150,000, roughly equivalent to one week's wages, rather than a playing ban. The independent commission ruling on the case acknowledged the lack of proven spot-fixing but upheld the misconduct charges related to his conduct during the investigation. Despite the ordeal costing him a potential £85 million transfer to Manchester City, Paqueta has continued to play for West Ham and expressed gratitude to the club and fans. The final decision on the fine and related costs is pending, with Paqueta's legal team likely to contest the penalty's amount. West Ham, while critical of the FA's evidence, have chosen not to pursue legal action against the governing body.