Lucas Paqueta’s family have been brought under investigation by the Football Association after their alleged involvement in a spot-fixing scandal.
WHAT HAPPENED?
An investigation was launched by La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) into allegations that Paqueta’s uncle and cousin, Bruno and Yan Tolentino, had paid former Real Betis striker Luiz Henrique more than £5,000 immediately after Henrique was given two contentious yellow cards.
The FA’s inquiry into Paqueta’s possible involvement in similar spot-fixing actions has a tight connection to the betting irregularities surrounding Henrique’s yellow cards. Four counts of spot-fixing are purportedly among the charges against Paqueta, a grave offence that might have dire repercussions for the Brazilian midfield player.
It is said that Betway, the online gambling business that sponsors West Ham, raised the integrity warnings that identified the questionable betting patterns involving both Paqueta and Henrique. It is thought that a large number of Paqueta’s dubious wagers were made by members of his own family, which would make the investigation much more difficult.
WHAT BRUNO TOLENTINO SAID
In a conversation with the Brazilian news source UOL, Paqueta’s uncle Bruno Tolentino acknowledged sending Henrique two bank payments totalling £5,500. Tolentino argued, however, that the payments had nothing to do with any illegal conduct and were instead connected to a personal loan.
He clarified, saying, “I paid him the money I owed him.” We had an agreement on it. I was in debt to him and he had given me the money. We fulfilled our promise to repay it. I paid it back as soon as I had the funds to do so. I’m allowed to play; I’m not banned. I simply cannot have access to insider knowledge. Luiz Henrique said, “Man, it was just pure luck.” It’s really rare.
WHAT NEXT?
According to The Sun, the FA was not aware of Tolentino’s role in the case until these latest disclosures, but they are now broadening their inquiry. Although Paqueta has not yet been the subject of a formal disciplinary process, once the FA concludes its arguments, it is anticipated that a three-person independent commission would take up the case. Paqueta may have a lifetime ban from playing professional football if proven guilty.