West Ham's Lucas Paqueta Cleared of Spot-Fixing Charges After Two-Year Probe

Lucas Paqueta, the West Ham midfielder, has been cleared of spot-fixing charges dating back to 2023, ending a two-year investigation that threatened his career with a potential lifetime ban. The allegations involved Paqueta deliberately getting booked to influence betting markets, but after a trial supported by testimony from former coach David Moyes, an independent Regulatory Commission found him not guilty. Paqueta expressed immense relief and gratitude to his wife, West Ham, fans, and legal team, emphasizing his eagerness to return to football with a positive mindset. West Ham officials, including Vice-Chair Karren Brady, publicly supported Paqueta throughout the process and welcomed the verdict, although the club may consider selling him to raise funds during a challenging transfer window. Manchester City showed repeated interest in Paqueta prior to his charges, highlighting his high valuation and potential, but took a cautious stance due to the ongoing investigation. Now free of the cloud of suspicion, Paqueta can fully focus on his football career as West Ham prepares for the upcoming Premier League season.