In response to Lucas Paqueta’s Football Association (FA) indictment for purported betting violations, his attorneys have asked for an extension of time.
The West Ham United midfielder was given until June 3 to answer to the FA’s claims of wrongdoing, which he rejects, after the charges were made public on May 23.
The Brazil Football Federation (CBF) said last week that it was notified by the FA that, given the circumstances of the case, it was expected that a request for an extension would be made.
In August of last year, the FA launched an investigation into Paqueta, 26. Regarding his behavior during West Ham’s Premier League matches against Leicester City on November 12, 2022, Aston Villa on March 12, 2023, Leeds United on May 21, 2023, and Bournemouth on August 12, 2023, he has been accused of four suspected violations of FA Rule E5.1.
In a statement, the FA said that Paqueta “sought to influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of, or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting”.
In addition, Paqueta is accused of violating FA Rule F3 twice “with regard to purported noncompliance with FA Rule F2.”
With fair notice, the FA may order any participant to attend and respond to inquiries, submit documents, information, or other materials under FA Rule F2. A participant may be found in violation of FA Rule F3, which is deemed misconduct, if they refuse to comply with these demands.
Following the charge, Paqueta wrote on social media: “I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me.
“For nine months, I have cooperated 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.
“Due to the ongoing process, I will not be providing further comment.”
Paqueta received approval from the CBF last week to represent Brazil in the Copa America this summer.
In order to confirm that he was not temporarily barred from representing his club or nation, the federation wrote to the FA.
Paqueta “denies the breach and will continue to fiercely defend his stance,” according to West Ham.
They added: “The club will continue to stand by and support the player throughout the process and will make no further comment until the matter is concluded.”
(Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
