Memphis Depay Faces Suspended Jail Sentence After Drink-Driving Incident in Monaco
In a troubling turn of events, former Manchester United player Memphis Depay has been handed a suspended prison sentence for drink-driving in Monaco. The incident, which occurred last summer, saw the footballer engage in reckless driving after a night out, leading to his arrest and subsequent legal consequences.
The episode took place in August when Depay was vacationing in the luxurious principality. After spending time at two local nightclubs, he made the ill-fated decision to drive his Rolls Royce. At around 3 a.m., the police stopped Depay for dangerous driving. A breathalyzer test revealed that his blood alcohol level was 1.01 per milliliter, which is well above the legal limit in Monaco.
The 30-year-old, now playing for Brazilian club Corinthians after leaving Atletico Madrid last year, was convicted in a Monaco court. Along with the four-month suspended prison sentence, he was also hit with a €9,000 fine (around £7,500) and a two-year driving ban in the region.
After the ruling, Depay took to Instagram to express his regret, offering a public apology for his actions. “Last summer, during my vacation in Monaco, I made a mistake and decided to drive home after having a drink in a restaurant,” he wrote. “I should have taken a taxi instead, but I didn’t. I take full responsibility for my actions, and 2024 was a year of lessons.”
He continued by vowing to learn from the incident, stating, “In 2025, we will do better.” This apology was an effort to make amends for the poor decision he had made while on holiday.
For Manchester United fans, Memphis Depay is a familiar name. His time at the club from 2015 to 2017 was marked by disappointment, as he struggled to make an impact under manager Louis van Gaal. Despite his challenges at United, Depay did manage to win the FA Cup, Europa League, and League Cup during his stint.
Following his departure from Old Trafford, Depay moved to Lyon, where he found more success. His career continued to flourish as he played for both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. Now, in Brazil with Corinthians, Depay seems to have regained some form, scoring seven goals in 18 appearances so far.
The drink-driving incident in Monaco serves as a reminder of the importance of making responsible choices, especially for public figures like Depay. As he continues his career, the former Manchester United star’s apology and legal consequences highlight a crucial turning point in both his personal and professional life.
As Memphis Depay reflects on his actions, he hopes that the lessons learned from this episode will shape a better future in the years to come.