A recent report has uncovered the involvement of former England rugby player Zak Hardaker in a drink-driving incident, resulting in a harrowing crash while being pursued by police. The 32-year-old athlete, set to play for Leigh Leopards, was found to have 55 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, exceeding the legal limit of 35mcg. Consequently, he has been disqualified from driving for three years and faced a fine of £1,346.
Reports indicate that the incident took place after Hardaker had dropped off a companion and observed an unmarked police vehicle tailing him on January 31. In an effort to elude the police, he accelerated to a speed of 88mph, leading to a loss of control of his vehicle and causing it to overturn into a roadside embankment when the police car activated its lights.
The Leeds Magistrates’ Court has further mandated Hardaker to pay a victim surcharge of £538 and court costs of £85, amounting to a total of £1,969. This is not his first encounter with legal issues, as he had previously been banned from driving due to a drink-driving offense.
Despite his troubled past, Hardaker has continued to compete for Leigh Leopards, contributing to their victory in the Challenge Cup after a 52-year drought. Nonetheless, his career has been tarnished by various off-field incidents, including an assault in 2015 and a 14-month suspension for testing positive for cocaine in 2017. Despite these challenges, the club has voiced its support for Hardaker, acknowledging the situation and committing to standing by him.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ramifications of drink-driving and its potential impact on individuals and their professional lives. As public figures, it is imperative for athletes such as Hardaker to set a positive example for their supporters and the general public. It is hoped that he will perceive this incident as an opportunity for personal growth and make wiser decisions in the future.
In conclusion, this regrettable incident involving Zak Hardaker sheds light on the serious consequences of drink-driving. It underscores the fact that nobody is exempt from the law, and the repercussions of such actions can be considerable. We trust that this will serve as a turning point for Hardaker and a cautionary tale for others.