Date: July 18, 2025
Paul Ince, the renowned former England captain and Premier League legend, has been disqualified from driving for 12 months and fined £7,085 after admitting to a drink-driving offence at Chester Magistrates’ Court today.
🕵️ Incident Overview
On June 28, 2025, Cheshire Police responded to a collision on Chester High Road near Heswall Golf Club, where Ince’s black Range Rover had struck the central reservation barrier . The 57‑year‑old former midfielder was arrested at the scene and later charged with drink-driving . At today’s hearing, Ince pleaded guilty to exceeding the legal alcohol limit and received a 12‑month driving ban, a £5,000 fine, plus £2,085 in legal costs, totaling £7,085 .
⚖️ Court’s Message
District Judge Jack McGarva issued a stern warning: “If you’re going to drive, you don’t drink at all.” The judge underscored the seriousness of the offence and the responsibility borne by all drivers .
👤 Paul Ince’s Football Legacy
Though known for today’s offence, Ince is celebrated for a sterling football career:
6‑year stint at Manchester United (1989–1995), winning two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the 1992 League Cup under Sir Alex Ferguson . Also featured prominently for West Ham, Inter Milan, Liverpool, Middlesbrough, and Wolves from 1986 to 2007. Earned 53 caps for England and later embarked on a managerial shift, notably with Reading FC (2022–2023) . After retirement, Ince regularly appeared as a pundit on Sky Sports and other media outlets .
🚨 Wider Context: Drink-Driving & Footballers
Paul Ince joins a regrettable list of footballers convicted for drink-driving, including Wayne Rooney, Hugo Lloris, Yaya Touré, and Paul Merson . These cases highlight a recurring issue in professional sports—athletes being held to high public standards off the pitch too.
💡 Key Takeaways for Readers
Zero alcohol tolerance for drivers: Even “minor” over-the-limit incidents can result in serious legal and financial consequences. Public figures are no exception: The law applies equally—fans and followers must remember that fame doesn’t grant immunity. Rehabilitation and responsibility: Beyond the ban and fine, incidents like this can prompt deeper reflections on behavior and future advocacy for road safety.
📝 Closing Thoughts
Paul Ince’s ban is a stark reminder of the consequences of drink-driving, regardless of one’s status or history. While his contribution to football history is significant, this latest chapter serves as a cautionary tale. Let’s hope he uses this time to reflect and perhaps even contribute positively to campaigns against drink-driving in the future.
source: skysports
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