Former England and Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling has been arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drugs, Hampshire Constabulary has confirmed. The 31-year-old, now playing for Dutch side Feyenoord, was detained on Thursday morning after his Lamborghini collided with barriers on the southbound M3 near the Minley Interchange.
Police said no other vehicles were involved and no injuries were reported. Sterling was arrested on suspicion of driving a vehicle whilst unfit through drugs, dangerous driving, possession of a class C drug and failing to provide a specimen. He has been bailed pending further inquiries.
A source close to Sterling said the arrest highlights the “modern treatment of players who are no longer ‘fit for purpose’ – disposable”. They added: “How a prolific English international who has steered the England squad to significant heights over the last decade has been made to feel worthless – forgotten about.”
The source described the psychological strain on Sterling as “immeasurable”, saying he had been “isolated” and subjected to mockery and heckling. Sterling left Chelsea by mutual consent in January after a disappointing spell and moved to Feyenoord to “escape and rediscover his love for the game”, but the negativity followed.
Sterling has previously spoken out about racist abuse and criticised media coverage of black footballers. The source emphasised that Sterling has been arrested only under suspicion, with no proof of anything in his system.
