Full Breakdown
Chico Slimani Found Guilty of Drink-Driving After Sobriety Break
4/10/2026, 12:13:25 AM
Incident Overview
Chico Slimani, a former contestant on the 2005 series of *The X Factor*, was found guilty of drink-driving at Willesden Magistrates' Court. The incident occurred on December 13, 2022, when Slimani, whose real name is Yousseph Slimani, was pulled over while driving a Vauxhall Astra. He recorded a breath alcohol level of 40 micrograms per 100 millilitres, exceeding the legal limit of 35 micrograms.
Circumstances Leading to Arrest
During the court proceedings, Slimani explained that his arrest followed a six-hour drinking binge of Famous Grouse whisky, which he undertook after the death of a close friend from cancer. He stated, “It was after a third bereavement of one of my dearest friends, which was just devastating. On that fateful day, I’m teetotal, I don’t drink, and it felt like I was going out of my mind, couldn’t take it, so I drank.” He also consumed NyQuil, a cold and flu medicine, shortly before being stopped by police.
Court Proceedings and Evidence
The court heard that Slimani had been in significant financial distress, facing county court proceedings due to heavy debt. He presented a book he was writing titled *The Secret 19: Cancer Questions Worth Asking* during the trial. A toxicologist testified that the NyQuil could have contributed an additional 2 micrograms of alcohol to his breath test, but the accuracy of the information provided was uncertain.
Arresting officer Pc Yuksel noted Slimani's animated demeanor prior to questioning, which changed to defensiveness when asked about alcohol consumption. Despite failing the breath test, Slimani was described as “calm and compliant” during his arrest.
Sentencing and Reactions
District Judge Mark Jabbitt sentenced Slimani to a 12-month driving ban, a £600 fine, a £240 surcharge, and £620 in costs. He was also offered a place in a drink drivers’ rehabilitation scheme, which could reduce his disqualification period by a quarter. The judge expressed sympathy for Slimani's bereavements but emphasized that excessive drinking and the use of medication without understanding its effects on driving were unacceptable.
Criticism and Consequences
Slimani expressed regret over the incident, describing it as a “catastrophe” that led to the loss of his reputation and work opportunities. He stated, “When I got to the police station all I could think of was the implications of me being arrested for something that goes completely against what I am and what I do.” He has since committed to sobriety, claiming he has not consumed alcohol since the incident.
Conclusion
Chico Slimani's conviction highlights the serious consequences of drink-driving, particularly in the context of personal grief and mental health struggles. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior, especially when dealing with the effects of loss and emotional distress.
