Juventus Arturo Vidal loses licence for drunk-driving

Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal lost his drivers’ license for two years and publicly apologized on Wednesday as part of a plea deal to avoid prosecution for driving under the influence of alcohol and insulting a policeman last month, when he took part in the Copa America with the Chilean national team.

Vidal, who played last month both in the Champions finals for Juventus and in the Copa America for title winners Chile, was involved on June 16 in a car crash while speeding as he returned to soccer training after having free time in the afternoon. Both he and his wife suffered minor injuries.

According to police, Vidal had a blood alcohol level of 1.31 while driving.

A contrite Vidal appeared in court in the capital city of Santiago and addressed his apology to the police officers who sat in the courtroom.

“Hello, I’m Arturo Vidal, I would like to apologize to the police of Chile. At the time, it was not the right moment nor the optimal conditions. I accelerated and disrespected them. I regret it now and hopefully it will never happen again. And I would like to thank you also because you were able to control me and this will not happen again, so to all the police, my apologies,” he said.

During the crash, Vidal totalled his red Ferrari when he collided with another car.

As part of the plea deal, the Juventus midfielder’s driver’s license was suspended two years and he must pay a crash victim compensation.

Furthermore, he is required to give two motivational speeches to inmates and donate 100 football jerseys, balls, cleats, shin pads and socks.

He will also donate a signed jersey worn during the Copa America to the fire department of the town of Buin, where the crash took place.

Despite the scandal, Chile’s coach, Jorge Sampaoli, downplayed the situation and did not suspend him. He was part of the squad that lifted the Copa America on Saturday for the first time in Chile’s history.

Juventus have denied rumours that Real Madrid has indicated an interest in Vidal.