Oisin Murphy fined £70,000 for drink-driving crash

In April 2023, a serious incident occurred in Hermitage, Berkshire, where Oisin Murphy, a well-known jockey from the UK, drove his grey Mercedes A Class while under the influence of alcohol. The crash, which happened around midnight, resulted in the vehicle leaving the road and colliding with a tree. At the time of the accident, Murphy had a passenger, who was the car's owner. Both were taken to the hospital for treatment. A breathalyser test revealed that Murphy was significantly over the drink-driving limit, prompting legal action. On July 3, 2025, he appeared at Reading Magistrates' Court where he pleaded guilty to the charge of driving a motor vehicle while exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit. The court imposed a substantial fine of £70,000, alongside a £2,000 surcharge and £85 in costs, totaling £72,085. This hefty fine was determined based on Murphy's annual income, which was reportedly around £250,000, with a weekly earning of £1,250. Additionally, he received a driving ban that lasted for 20 months, reflecting the seriousness of his actions that endangered not only himself and his passenger but also potentially other road users. The presiding judge, Sam Goozee, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that Murphy was fortunate that the incident did not result in injuries to them or the public. Murphy expressed remorse for his conduct through his defense attorney, who conveyed his apologies to the passenger, the public, and his colleagues in the racing community. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of drink-driving and its consequences, notably within the sports world, where public figures are often scrutinized for their actions. Murphy's case serves as a reminder that even successful athletes can face serious repercussions for reckless behavior. The implications of this ruling may also extend beyond financial consequences, affecting Murphy's reputation and career as a champion jockey.