Former Premier League footballer Ian Poveda has been handed a six-month driving ban after being caught speeding at 100mph in a 70mph zone. The 26-year-old winger was stopped by police while driving his black Range Rover on the A184 in South Tyneside at approximately 8.45am on February 23, 2025.
Court Proceedings and Penalties
Poveda did not attend the hearing at North Tyneside Magistrates' Court but pleaded guilty to the speeding offence. He was banned from driving for six months under a totting up procedure, having been caught speeding three times previously. In addition to the ban, Poveda was fined £800, ordered to pay a £320 surcharge and £600 in costs, and received six penalty points on his license, adding to the nine he already had.
Prosecution and Defence Statements
Prosecutor Brian Payne stated that the Range Rover was 'travelling well in excess of the speed limit,' estimating it was at about 100mph in a 70mph zone. The officer signaled for the car to stop, and Poveda pulled over immediately. Defending solicitor Janice Hall argued that her client's speeding occurred 'for a very short period of time.'
Football Career Context
At the time of the offence, Poveda was playing for Sunderland, but he has since moved to Colombian top-flight side Internacional de Bogotá after signing a permanent deal in January 2025. Born in London of Colombian descent, Poveda began his career at Manchester City, making one first-team appearance after progressing through the academy.
He then joined Premier League club Leeds United, where he made 30 appearances over four years. During his tenure at Leeds, he was sent on Championship loans to Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, and Sheffield Wednesday. Poveda left Leeds in 2024 to sign for Sunderland, but managed only six appearances in the north-east across two seasons before his departure to Internacional de Bogotá.
The case highlights the legal consequences of repeated traffic violations, even for high-profile athletes. Poveda's driving ban and financial penalties serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to speed limits on UK roads.
