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Dutch footballer Memphis Depay has been given a four-month suspended prison sentence after being caught driving under the influence in Monaco. The 30-year-old forward, who currently plays for Brazilian club Corinthians, was pulled over by authorities in the early hours of August 6, 2024, for reckless driving in his Rolls-Royce, according to reports from RMC Sport.
Incident Details
The incident occurred at approximately 5:38 a.m. in the Place d'Armes area of Monaco, where police stopped Depay for what they described as “risky driving.” Upon conducting a breathalyzer test, officers found that the former Manchester United and Barcelona winger had an alcohol level of 1.01 mg per liter of exhaled air, which translates to more than 2g of alcohol per liter of blood—well above the legal limit.
Depay, who was reportedly cooperative at the time of his arrest, admitted to the charges and expressed remorse. However, the severity of the punishment handed down by the Monaco Criminal Court was notably stricter than the standard sentencing guidelines. While similar offenses in Monaco typically result in a one-month suspended sentence, a €2,000 fine, and a six-month driving ban, Depay was issued a four-month suspended sentence, a €9,000 fine, and a two-year ban from driving in the principality.
Court Proceedings and Absence
Despite the seriousness of the case, Depay did not attend the court hearing in Monaco, nor did he send legal representation to defend him. The absence of both the footballer and his lawyer suggests that he may have already accepted the consequences of his actions. However, under Monaco’s legal system, he still has the right to appeal the verdict, with a two-week window to challenge the ruling if he chooses to do so.
Depay’s Career and Previous Controversies
Depay, a well-known figure in European football, has played for several top clubs, including PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United, Lyon, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid. A talented but sometimes controversial player, he has built a reputation for his flashy lifestyle, which includes a love for luxury cars.
His passion for high-end vehicles has occasionally landed him in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. During his time at Manchester United, he reportedly drew criticism from club management after arriving at a reserve team match in a Rolls-Royce—a decision seen by some as inappropriate given his struggles to secure a regular spot in the first team.
At the time of his arrest in Monaco, Depay was without a club, having recently terminated his contract with Atlético Madrid a year early. He later joined Corinthians in Brazil, seeking a fresh start in his career.
Potential Consequences and Next Steps
While Depay’s punishment does not involve immediate jail time, the incident could have repercussions for his professional and personal life. The hefty fine and driving ban will impact his time in Monaco, a destination frequently visited by high-profile athletes and celebrities.
Additionally, given his status as a Netherlands international, the incident could raise concerns for the Dutch national team, especially with major tournaments on the horizon. While national team coaches often prioritize a player’s on-field performance over off-field behavior, repeated incidents can damage a player's reputation and influence selection decisions.
For now, Depay has two weeks to decide whether to appeal the ruling or accept the punishment as it stands. Regardless of his next steps, this latest controversy serves as a reminder of the scrutiny that comes with life as a professional footballer—where even off-the-pitch actions can have lasting consequences.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @memphisdepay
