West Ham United's footballer Lucas Paqueta awaits a lifetime ban for spot-fixing

West Ham is closely monitoring the situation regarding Lucas Paqueta, who is presently addressing spot-fixing allegations. Reports suggest that he may face serious consequences, potentially including a lifetime ban.

According to The Daily Mail, the case against Paqueta is being evaluated under civil law standards, specifically the balance of probabilities. Football Association (FA) needs to demonstrate that it is more likely than not that the 27-year-old engaged in actions to manipulate betting markets by intentionally seeking yellow cards. The outcome will depend on the evidence presented and how it aligns with the FA's requirements.

West Ham is closely monitoring the situation regarding Lucas Paqueta, who is presently addressing spot-fixing allegations. Reports suggest he may face serious consequences, potentially including a lifetime ban.

Paqueta's career on the line 

WestHam insiders have criticized the methods, labelling it as unjust that a player's entire career can be shredded to pieces based on a slim 51 per cent probability. The FA's Regulatory Commissions, which manage these cases under such a questionable civil standard, create a hurdle for both the club and the player to navigate.

In May 2024, the FA took action by charging Paqueta with serious misconduct. The allegations are that he intentionally received yellow cards in four distinct Premier League matches to ensure betting victories. These violations took place during games against Leicester City in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds United in May 2023, and Bournemouth in August of the same year.

West Ham has backed Paqueta, and are helping him clear his name. Paqueta himself has been resolute in denying the accusations, in an attempt to prove his innocence. 

The proceedings are anticipated to start this month and may last up to three weeks. It has been confirmed that Paqueta will be permitted to continue playing during this time.

Paqueta has been out of the team with an injury since West Ham's defeat against Brentford. The footballer still awaits the decision of the legal battle as well as his return to the side.