Former England footballer Raheem Sterling is facing a significant jail sentence after being charged with dangerous driving. The 31-year-old, currently without a club following the termination of his Chelsea contract and a failed spell at Feyenoord, crashed his Lamborghini on the M3 back in May. Sterling also faces charges of possessing laughing gas and failing to provide a specimen following his arrest. Dangerous driving carries a maximum two-year prison sentence if found guilty.
Charges and court appearance
A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesman said: “A driver will appear in court next month to face charges following a collision on the M3. ‘Raheem Sterling, 31, from Berkshire, has been charged for the following offences: dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation, failing to provide a specimen. ‘The charges come following a single vehicle collision, involving a Lamborghini, on the M3 southbound, close to the Minley Interchange, on 28 May, 2026. ‘No other vehicles were involved and no injuries were reported. ‘Mr Sterling is due to appear at Basingstoke magistrates court on 15 September.’
Dashcam footage and incident details
Dashcam footage of the incident, released in June, appeared to show Sterling pulling in front of another car without indicating before almost hitting the central reservation. A van is forced to brake suddenly to avoid crashing into the Lamborghini, which then veers between two lanes for several seconds. Sterling appeared to have a balloon in his hand during the clip. In 2021 he was allegedly caught inhaling laughing gas – sometimes known as ‘hippy crack’.
Legal implications and next steps
Sterling’s legal situation now hinges on the upcoming court date. If convicted of dangerous driving, he could face up to two years in prison. The possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation and the failure to provide a specimen are additional charges that could compound his legal troubles. The case is set to be heard at Basingstoke magistrates court on 15 September, where Sterling will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations.
