London — Former soccer star George Best was banned from driving for 20 months and fined 1,500 pounds ($3,650 Cdn) Monday after pleading guilty to drunk driving.
The 57-year-old former Manchester United star, who has a long history of alcohol abuse, was arrested early last Friday in southwest London. Breathalyzer tests showed he was nearly 21/2 times over the legal alcohol limit.
Wimbledon Magistrate Sally Marley described Best's conduct as "irresponsible and unacceptable."
Best agreed to enrol in a safe-driving course, which could get his 20-month ban reduced.
Best's lawyers said the former player was upset after having a big argument with his son, Callum, at a restaurant. He was trying to drive himself to a rehabilitation centre when he was stopped by police for erratic driving.
Best, considered one of the most talented players of all time, is a confessed alcoholic. He was jailed for three months for drunk driving, assaulting a policeman and jumping bail in December 1984.
He underwent liver transplant surgery in 2002 to repair damage caused by decades of heavy drinking.
Best said at the time he would never drink again. But he started drinking again last year and his wife, Alex, recently left him.
