Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Former Manchester City star Raheem Sterling pleads guilty to dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide 

Sterling has been banned from driving until his next court date scheduled for November 25.

• September 15, 2026
Raheem Sterling
Raheem Sterling

Former Manchester City star Raheem Sterling has pleaded guilty to charges of dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation, and failing to provide a specimen after a dangerous crash on May 28.

The 31-year-old appeared before Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday in Hampshire, where he pleaded guilty to driving a Lamborghini Urus recklessly on the M3 southbound near Minley interchange, causing damage to the vehicle.

However, no other vehicle was involved, and no injuries or casualties were reported.

Sterling admitted having six canisters of nitrous oxide, a Class C drug for wrong inhalation, and failing to provide a specimen.

The prosecution counsel, Simon Jones, told the court that the footballer told the police when he was arrested that he had an issue with nitrous oxide, following his compliance with a roadside breath preliminary drug test, which came back negative for cannabis or cocaine.

At the scene of the incident, the police wanted to take a blood test to identify if he was under the influence of any drug or substance, which Sterling did not consent to.

Sterling sought legal advice from his lawyer, Jason Bartfled KC, before deciding to provide a blood sample, as the police sergeant believed he was deliberately avoiding a clear answer.

Mr Bartfled said the case was serious because while he was driving he was seriously impaired at certain points.

His defence also argued that the level of damage to the vehicle he drove was serious, adding that there was confusion over his failure to provide a specimen.

District Judge Kirsty Allman granted Sterling bail, and she ordered a pre-sentence report to help the court decide an appropriate punishment for his offence.

Sterling has been banned from driving until his next court date scheduled for November 25.

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