The Brazil Football Federation (CBF) has given Lucas Paqueta the green light to participate in the 2024 Copa America despite facing allegations of betting breaches. The CBF reached out to the English Football Association (FA) seeking clarity on various aspects of Paqueta’s case, including the timing of a decision and whether the FA has requested FIFA for a global extension on any potential sanctions.
CBF clears Lucas Paqueta to play Copa America 2024
After speaking FA’s director of integrity Tarik Shamel, the CBF determined that Paqueta cannot be barred from representing the national team since he hasn’t faced provisional suspension from either his club or country. Furthermore, there’s no definite timeline for a final verdict on the matter.
CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues penned a letter to the FA’s chief executive Mark Bullingham, posing four crucial questions regarding Paqueta’s situation. These inquiries revolve around potential provisional measures, interim measures sought by the FA, the timeline for the disciplinary committee’s hearing, and the likelihood of a decision before July 14. Additionally, Rodrigues queried whether the FA has approached FIFA for a worldwide extension of any potential sanctions.
Why was Lucas Paqueta’s participation in doubt
Paqueta finds himself embroiled in a controversy after the FA charged him with misconduct on May 23 over alleged betting breaches. The charges stem from four Premier League fixtures involving his club, West Ham United.
The FA’s investigation, initiated last August, has led to Paqueta facing allegations of intentionally seeking cards from referees to manipulate betting markets. Additionally, he faces charges for purportedly failing to comply with FA rules.
Expressing surprise and dismay, Paqueta took to social media to refute the charges vehemently. He emphasized his cooperation with the investigation over nine months and pledged to clear his name vigorously.
Paqueta has until June 3 to respond to the charges, which he vehemently denies. The CBF revealed that the FA might request an extension to respond to the allegations, given the intricacies of the case.
According to the CBF, the FA hasn’t imposed any provisional suspension on Lucas Paqueta, thus allowing him to continue playing at present.
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Lucas Paqueta named in Brazil’s Copa America 2024 squad
Despite the ongoing legal battle, Paqueta remains focused on his football commitments. He was included in Brazil’s provisional Copa America squad, demonstrating his determination to represent his country on the international stage.
As Brazil gears up for the Copa America, they have scheduled friendly matches against Mexico and the USMNT. Their campaign kicks off against Costa Rica, followed by fixtures against Paraguay and Colombia in the group stage.
Brazil Copa America 2024 squad
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Manchester City), Bento (Athletico Paranaense)
Defenders: Marquinhos (PSG), Danilo (Juventus), Eder Militao (Real Madrid), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Guilherme Arana (Athletico Mineiro), Yan Couto (Girona), Lucas Beraldo (PSG), Wendell (Porto)
Midfielders: Lucas Paqueta (West Ham United), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United), Douglas Luiz (Aston Villa), Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Joao Gomes (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Forwards: Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Endrick (Palmeiras), Savio (Girona), Evanilson (Porto)
