West Ham ready to take FA to court over potential LIFETIME ban for Lucas Paqueta as investigation into alleged spot-fixing continues

The 26-year-old playmaker is accused of deliberately receiving yellow cards in four Premier League matches against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth. If found guilty by the FA (Football Association), Paqueta could face a lifetime ban from football.

According to reports from The Sun, West Ham are contemplating taking the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. The club is questioning the FA's jurisdiction over the case, arguing that the suspicious betting activities linked to Paqueta occurred in Brazil. Additionally, the Hammers consider it unreasonable for Paqueta to potentially lose his playing career over these charges.

Until the FA's disciplinary process is concluded, Paqueta remains eligible to play for West Ham. The Brazilian international has consistently denied any involvement in spot-fixing activities. In a statement, Paqueta expressed his shock and disappointment at the charges, stating, "For nine months, I have co-operated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can. I deny the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name."

The allegations against Paqueta initially surfaced in August 2023 and the betting probe led to the collapse of his £85m ($109m) transfer to Premier League champions Manchester City. The FA's sanctioning guidelines for players found guilty of spot-fixing recommend a ban ranging from six months to life.

After participating with Brazil in the Copa America, Paqueta is expected to rejoin West Ham in the United States next week as they continue their pre-season tour. The Hammers are slated to play against Wolves, Crystal Palace and Celta Vigo in their pre-season before they begin their Premier League campaign against Aston Villa.