West Ham United is contemplating legal action against the Football Association (FA) to prevent a potential lifetime ban on their midfielder, Lucas Paqueta. The club argues that it would be unreasonable for Paqueta to lose his career over allegations handled in a disciplinary hearing based on the balance of probabilities.
The 26-year-old Brazilian is accused of deliberately receiving yellow cards in four Premier League matches, potentially linked to suspicious betting activities. If found guilty, Paqueta could face a lifetime ban from football.
West Ham is reportedly considering taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. The club questions the FA’s jurisdiction, as the suspicious activities reportedly occurred in Brazil. They argue that it would be unjust for Paqueta to face such severe consequences without conclusive evidence.
Paqueta has consistently denied the allegations, expressing shock and disappointment at the charges. “For nine months, I have cooperated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can,” Paqueta stated. “I deny the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name.”
Until the FA concludes its disciplinary process, Paqueta remains eligible to play for West Ham. The club and the player are determined to challenge the charges and protect his career.
