Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal is currently in his native Chile with the national team competing in the Copa América. On his way back from a casino with his wife on his off-day, Vidal was involved in a two-car accident and arrested on suspicion of drunk driving.
Neither he, his wife in the passenger seat, nor the other driver were seriously injured. News first leaked of the accident when photos of Vidal’s car started to circulate online. Here are a couple more pictures showing the damage:
Following the crash, police arrived on the scene and administered breathalyzer tests to the two drivers. According to Marca, Vidal had a BAC of 0.12. After a trip to the hospital to be evaluated for his injuries, he was charged with the crime. It appears that Vidal was released at some point that night, as he posted a video on Youtube stating that he had been involved in an accident, that he and his family weren’t injured, that the crash wasn’t his fault, and to thank everyone for their concern.
Vidal is scheduled to meet with a judge today. Marca reports that as a first time offender, the midfielder will likely be subject to a fine and a two-year suspension of his driver’s license. It’s unclear at this point whether he will continue playing in the Copa América or not.
Update, 2:04 p.m.: The Chilean FA has decided to allow Vidal to continue playing in the Copa América.
[Marca]
Update: (See Comment) Photos via Red de Emergencia.