In recent months, Jens Lehmann, the former national goalkeeper for Germany, has found himself once again making headlines—but not for any on-field achievements. Instead, the 55-year-old sports figure is embroiled in legal issues that continue to accumulate, tarnishing his public image.
On March 24, 2025, Lehmann was supposed to appear at the Amtsgericht (District Court) in Munich regarding an incident dating back to June 22, 2024, when he was caught using his mobile phone while driving. This offense resulted in a fine of 100 Euros and a point on his driving record in Flensburg. However, both Lehmann and his lawyer failed to show up for the hearing.
In a terse statement regarding the occurrence, Dr. Martin Swoboda, the spokesperson for the court, remarked, "In the today’s session, the court established that the respondent did not appear without sufficient excuse despite proper summons. No exemption from the obligation to appear was granted." Consequently, the court dismissed his appeal, reinforcing the penalty for his actions.
The judge, who has dealt with Lehmann's legal matters multiple times previously, took a moment to deliver a sardonic comment during the proceedings. "He could have taken a taxi or a helicopter," she said, referencing an earlier incident when Lehmann notably flew via helicopter from Starnberger See to train—about 250 kilometers away—however, this previous escapade was also marred by allegations of driving under influence after being stopped without a valid driver's license.
Lehmann has one week from the verdict to file an appeal against this ruling, yet he is slated to face more serious accusations in just days. Another trial is set for April 3, 2025, where he faces charges of driving under the influence following a drinking episode after the Munich Oktoberfest in 2024. Reports suggest that the public prosecutor's office is pushing for a fine of 80 daily rates for that offense.
In the lead-up to this latest court date, Lehmann has expressed regret over his actions, stating, "It was really not a good thing for me. I regret it as well, but I misjudged myself." Two hours after the incident and with reported blood alcohol content of 0.7, he acknowledged that driving was irresponsible, stating that he understands this would lead to a four-week suspension of his license—which he believes is appropriate.
That said, he has contested portrayals that claimed he was "totally drunk," asserting that was not the case. The reasoning behind his appeal against the penalty order remains unclear; however, it is important to note that he enjoys the presumption of innocence until a final verdict is delivered.
In addition to the charges concerning mobile phone usage and driving under the influence, Lehmann has also gained notoriety for legal troubles stemming from a bizarre incident known as the "chainsaw case." Approximately six months ago, he was convicted of property damage after he was seen sawing off a roof beam belonging to a neighbor. This case saw him face a hefty fine of 135,000 Euros, further complicating his already troubled standing in the public eye.
As these legal troubles loom, Lehmann undoubtedly faces significant scrutiny not just from the courts but also from the public who remembers him as a celebrated sports figure. The 55-year-old's recent actions have led his reputation to take a severe hit, leaving fans and former teammates disheartened.
With another court date just around the corner, it remains to be seen how this compelling saga unfolds and whether Lehmann can navigate through this troubling chapter of his life. Will he regain some semblance of public reassurance, or will his legal battles continue to overshadow his significant contributions to German football?
Only time will tell as Lehmann heads into another courtroom battle, which adds yet another chapter to his increasingly packed justice file.
