Rangers star Rabbi Matondo has been found guilty of dangerous driving following a police pursuit at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour on Glasgow's M8 motorway. The incident, which occurred on August 1, 2023, has led to the player being fined £420 and receiving a 12-month driving ban.
During the morning rush, Matondo, 24, was driving his Audi Q8 when he dangerously undertook heavy goods vehicles and ran through red lights all whilst being pursued by police. The chase began on the Kingston Bridge after traffic officer Constable James Bowie and his colleague noticed Matondo tailgaiting their unmarked vehicle. The officer noted the dangers of Matondo's driving as he sped off, leaving the police behind.
PC Bowie described the tension of the situation, reflecting on the potential for tragedy: "I knew it was a nice big Audi Q8 but thought if he loses control at 100 miles per hour there is a possibility of a fatality." They opted not to chase Matondo directly, fearing the consequences of such dangerous speeds on public safety. Instead, they monitored the situation without matching his pace, which, according to Bowie, was often above 100 mph.
At Glasgow Sheriff Court, evidence was presented where PC Bowie stated, "I never went anywhere near [Matondo's car]," highlighting the risks posed by Matondo's high-speed maneuvers. The officer provided dashcam footage showing the chase, including moments where Matondo’s driving reached extreme speeds.
Facing the judge, Sheriff Mary Shields assessed the footage and feedback from those involved. She stated, "I think overwhelmingly the way in which Mr Matondo drove the Audi car over the distance shown on CCTV is obviously far below what is expected of a driver." This led her to convict Matondo of dangerous driving based on the evidence presented.
Defending the player, lawyer Ronnie Simpson argued for leniency, stating, “He was a young man running late to his work and did not want to let his colleagues down.” Simpson also noted the officers' report indicated Matondo's average speed during the incident was recorded at 72 mph, significantly over the 50 mph limit for the motorway he was on. Bowie clarified this point, saying, “That’s an average between distances - the speed was in excess of 100 mph at times.”
After the hearing, Matondo was handed both the fine and the road ban, which left the player distressed but accepting of the consequences his actions warranted. Bowie also reflected on Matondo's demeanor when they later spoke at Ibrox Stadium, where the player appeared "remorseful" and receptive to the police explanation about the severity of the chase.
This incident puts Matondo, currently on loan at German team Hannover 96, under scrutiny not just as an athlete but also as someone who must navigate the responsibilities tied to driving safely. The repercussions of his actions reflect broader discussions around athlete accountability, particularly when faced with the pressures of their professional environments.
Through this case, discussions arise not only about Matondo's reckless behavior but also the challenge for young athletes dealing with the stresses of professional life and the need to make decisions with public safety as a priority.
While this conviction carries ramifications for Matondo's driving future and potential impacts on his career, it also serves as a cautionary tale highlighting the urgency of responsible behavior behind the wheel, especially within the demanding world of professional sports.