Full Breakdown
Raheem Sterling Arrested on Suspicion of Drug-Driving After M3 Crash
5/30/2026, 4:15:47 AM
Incident Overview
At about 9 a.m. on Thursday, Raheem Sterling’s Lamborghini struck the M3 barriers near the Minley Interchange in Hampshire. Police stopped the 31-year-old, a Feyenoord player, and arrested him on suspicion of drug-unfit driving, dangerous driving, possession of a Class C drug and refusing a specimen. No other vehicles were involved, no injuries occurred, and Sterling was released on bail pending enquiries. Hampshire Police made the arrest details public in a formal statement.
Background
Sterling rose at Liverpool, then won league titles with Manchester City. He joined Chelsea in 2022, spent two seasons, and was loaned to Arsenal, scoring once in 28 games. In January 2024 his Chelsea contract ended and he signed for Feyenoord in the Netherlands.
Key Figures & Statistics
Raheem Sterling – England forward, 82 caps, 200 goals in English football, now with Feyenoord.
Robin van Persie – Feyenoord manager, former Dutch international.
Hampshire Police – the force that responded to the crash.
Official Statements & Responses
Hampshire Police confirmed the collision, the arrest on multiple suspicions, and Sterling’s bail. They noted Class C drugs can include tranquillisers, steroids, nitrous oxide and GHB. Neither Sterling’s lawyers nor Feyenoord issued a comment.
Criticism & Opposition
Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie criticised the reaction to Sterling’s case, calling the footballing community’s handling “really very bad” and suggesting dissatisfied fans could “check out any time you like.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree on the crash and charges. Details on the specific Class C substance, test results and Sterling’s response remain undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Just before 9am on Thursday, we received reports of that a Lamborghini was in collision with barriers on the M3 southbound, close to the Minley Interchange.” — Hampshire Police
- “The driver, a 31-year-old man, from Berkshire, has been arrested on suspicion of driving a vehicle whilst unfit through drugs, driving dangerously, possession of a Class C drug and failing to provide a specimen. He has been bailed while our enquiries continue.” — Hampshire Police
- “ "He has scored 200 goals in England and played 82 international matches," Van Persie added.” — Robin van Persie, Feyenoord manager
- “But I think the way we handle this as a footballing nation is really very bad.” — Robin van Persie, Feyenoord manager
What’s Next
Sterling remains on bail as Hampshire Police continue the probe. The case may go to court if evidence warrants further action. Feyenoord has not signalled any immediate effect on his playing status.
