Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton given ban and fine for drink-driving

Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton has been handed a driving ban and fined £29,000 after admitting to drink-driving.

The 26-year-old Brazilian was arrested in Ponteland Road, Newcastle, on 12 January at 01:20 GMT after the police pulled over his 2022-plate Mercedes G-Wagen.

A breathalyser test showed Joelinton had 43 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, leaving him above the legal limit of 35.

In a hearing at Newcastle Magistrates' Court, district judge Paul Currer handed the player a 12-month ban from driving, which could be reduced to nine months if Joelinton completes a rehabilitation course.

The judge calculated Joelinton's fine based on his weekly wage from Newcastle United, with documents showing that to be £43,000 per week. The midfielder must also pay a £2,000 surcharge and £85 costs.

Joelinton's guilty plea, compliance with police officers and remorse were taken into account by the judge.

"You placed yourself in real jeopardy and it could have had disastrous consequences for the lives of others," he told the player.

"I sincerely hope you have learned from this mistake and we don't see you in this court again."

Jonathan Stirland, prosecuting, said police officers spotted Joelinton's car driving at speed near Newcastle's St. James' Park stadium and requested the driver to stop.

The roadside breathalyser recorded 50 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, but this was reduced to 43 micrograms in one of two later tests at Forth Banks police station.

The player, charged as Joelinton Cassio, told officers he'd drunk two glasses of wine earlier that evening.

Despite Joelinton continuing to feature for Eddie Howe's side in the wake of the incident, his barrister told the court he would face disciplinary proceedings within the club.