Raheem Sterling is facing the possibility of a prison sentence after pleading guilty to dangerous driving and possession of nitrous oxide.
The 31-year-old England international appeared in court following an incident in Hampshire on May 28, when he was reportedly behind the wheel of a Lamborghini during the morning rush hour.
According to reports, Sterling was inhaling nitrous oxide from balloons while driving. The court was told that his manner of driving was described as “absolutely horrendous” before he eventually lost control of the vehicle and careered off a busy road.
Sterling was arrested following the incident and subsequently admitted to police that he “had a problem” with nitrous oxide, according to The Athletic’s report of the court proceedings.
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a Class C drug in the United Kingdom when possessed for recreational purposes. Its possession can result in criminal penalties, while dangerous driving carries potentially more serious consequences depending on the circumstances of the offence.
Sterling has now admitted the charges, meaning the court will determine the appropriate punishment based on the facts of the case and relevant sentencing guidelines. A custodial sentence is among the possible outcomes, although the final sentence will depend on the court’s assessment.
The incident comes during a difficult period in Sterling’s career, with the forward’s future at club level also having attracted considerable attention in recent seasons.
The former Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea attacker has enjoyed a highly successful career, winning multiple major domestic trophies and becoming one of England’s most recognisable footballers.
However, the Hampshire incident has now placed the spotlight on Sterling away from the football pitch. His guilty plea means attention will turn to the court’s eventual sentencing decision.
Further details are expected to emerge as the legal process continues, with Sterling potentially facing significant consequences following the dangerous-driving incident and his admission relating to nitrous oxide possession.
