106mph United ace Martins escapes driving ban

Jan 7 2009 by Chris Robinson, The Journal

ROAD safety groups have slammed the decision not to ban Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins from driving, despite him being clocked speeding along a dual carriageway at 106mph.

The star was clocked on the A696 Woolsington bypass as he drove to Newcastle International Airport.

Martins, driving a Porsche Cayenne, was catching a flight to Italy after training and was due to meet a specialist for treatment to a footballing injury, Newcastle magistrates heard.

His solicitor also said he was travelling to meet his son, who lives in Italy, and was suffering from a breathing disorder.

Police clocked the footballer as he sped along the dual carriageway on the afternoon of May 10 last year.

As well as having six points placed on his licence, he was fined £550 and ordered to pay £400 costs.

District Judge Stephen Earl said: “I am not going to embarrass you any further than appearing in court and having your name in the Press.

“But when someone is driving so much more than the speed limit, someone has to take a stand. The fact that you have pleaded guilty makes the difference between keeping your licence and not keeping your licence.”

Martins, 24, who wore a brown jacket, chequered jumper, blue jeans and a silver watch, barely spoke during the hearing.

His solicitor, Michael Field, said: “He had been to the training ground and was running late and was in real danger of missing his flight. It was the only flight running that day.

“The very reason that he works under threat of injury was a cause of anxiety for him.

“It was on the approach to the airport itself. He has an exemplary driving record. This is the first time he has had to come to court for anything related to his driving.”

Martins, of Gateshead, arrived and left court in a black Mercedes.

Judge Earl told him at the end of the hearing: “We now hope that we will see you again soon on the pitch.”

Martins replied: “Yes. Playing. Not in here.”

But road safety groups have slammed the court’s decision not to ban the Magpies star.

Andrew Howard, head of road safety for the AA, said: “Over 100mph and one tends to start thinking about instant bans, but ultimately it falls to the opinion of the magistrate.”

A spokesman for road safety charity Brake said: “We are appalled that once again someone who is supposed to be a role model for young people has set such a bad example.

“Speeding kills, maims and devastates families and communities and it is essential that we send out a clear message that it is never acceptable. The justice system needs to ensure such a serious breach of the law is matched with a tough penalty.”