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Rangers winger Rabbi Matondo has been handed a 12-month driving ban after being convicted of dangerous driving in Glasgow. The 24-year-old footballer was caught exceeding 100mph on the M8 motorway while rushing to a training session at Ibrox Stadium.
The incident occurred on August 1, 2023, when Matondo, driving an Audi Q8, was spotted tailgating an unmarked police vehicle on the Kingston Bridge. Officers observed the player weaving through traffic, undertaking an HGV, and running a red light before ultimately tracking him down at the stadium.
A Glasgow court heard that police refrained from chasing Matondo at full speed due to concerns about public safety. Traffic constable James Bowie testified that he feared a potential fatal accident if Matondo lost control of his vehicle at such high speeds.
During the trial, the defense acknowledged that Matondo had been rushing to work and did not intend to endanger others. His lawyer, Ronnie Simpson, pointed out that the footballer’s average speed was 72mph in a 50mph zone, but police confirmed that he exceeded 100mph at certain points.
Despite showing remorse and cooperating with authorities, Matondo was found guilty and fined £420 in addition to his driving ban. Sheriff Mary Shields emphasized that his driving fell significantly below expected standards, leading to the court’s decision.
Matondo, currently on loan at German club Hannover 96, has yet to publicly comment on the ruling.
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / Winston Tjia, Instagram / @rabbimatondo
