West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá has received a reprimand and a warning regarding his future conduct, following a Football Association (FA) investigation. This outcome stems from his failure to fully comply with the FA's inquiry into allegations of spot-fixing, despite being cleared of the primary charges.

In July, an independent regulatory commission exonerated the 28-year-old Brazil international of four specific charges, which alleged he deliberately sought bookings in four separate matches during 2022 and 2023 with the improper purpose of affecting the betting market. The commission's decision confirmed that the serious spot-fixing accusations against Paquetá were not proven.

However, the commission did find Paquetá guilty of two breaches of FA Rule F3. These breaches related to his failure to comply with the requirement to answer questions and provide information pertinent to the FA's investigation. During two FA interviews conducted before he was formally charged, Paquetá notably gave "no comment" answers to the majority of questions posed.

Despite these breaches, the sanction imposed was a reprimand and a warning, with no financial penalty. Sources indicated that the commission had initially considered a fine as a starting point for such a breach, but this was ultimately reduced. Several factors contributed to this lenient outcome. The commission observed that Paquetá had been "acting on advice at all times" during his interactions with the FA. Crucially, it was noted that the FA appeared "not interested in what the player had to say at the second interview," even when Paquetá offered to answer questions that arose after the first interview and subsequent disclosure.

Furthermore, the commission highlighted that Paquetá eventually provided answers to the matters raised by the FA through a witness statement on December 15, 2023, thereby fulfilling the request for information. He had also voluntarily offered his mobile devices for interrogation prior to any charges being brought. These actions were deemed significant as they occurred before formal charges and did not ultimately impede or frustrate the investigation. The FA also advanced no evidence of prejudice caused by his initial lack of cooperation.

The independent commission also considered Paquetá's unblemished disciplinary record, the "weighty" legal costs he had already incurred during the prolonged investigation, and the considerable "mental stress" he endured. This stress was compounded by the collapse of his anticipated move to Manchester City, a direct consequence of the ongoing inquiry. The commission further acknowledged the profound torment Paquetá experienced from the "realisation that, had the [spot-fixing] charges been found proved, his footballing career would almost certainly have come to an end."

In light of these considerations, the commission determined that the FA should bear 90% of the costs associated with the commission, with Paquetá responsible for the remaining 10%. This allocation was justified by the fact that the spot-fixing charges, which were not proven, constituted the overwhelming majority of the costs involved in the extensive proceedings. Meanwhile, sources have suggested that Paquetá is considering legal action against the FA over the collapse of his high-profile transfer.