Lucas Paqueta Seeks Extension to Respond to Alleged Betting Breaches Charge
West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has requested an extension to respond to the Football Association (FA) charge for alleged betting breaches. The 26-year-old had until June 3 to reply to the charges, which he denies. The Brazil Football Federation (CBF) revealed that they were informed by the FA about the possibility of an extension due to the complexity of the case.
Paqueta has been charged with four alleged breaches of FA Rule E5.1 related to his conduct in Premier League matches against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth. The FA accused him of attempting to influence the outcome of the games by intentionally trying to receive a card from the referee to manipulate the betting market for profit.
In addition to the E5.1 charges, Paqueta is also facing two breaches of FA Rule F3 for alleged failures to comply with requests for information and documents. Despite denying all charges, the midfielder expressed his surprise and disappointment at being charged by the FA. He vowed to fight to clear his name and stated that he had cooperated fully with the investigation.
The CBF has cleared Paqueta to participate in Brazil’s Copa America campaign this summer after confirming with the FA that he was not suspended from playing for his club or country. West Ham has reiterated their support for Paqueta, stating that he denies the breach and will vigorously defend his position. The club has pledged to stand by the player throughout the process and refrained from further comment until the case is resolved.