Richard Ashcroft Banned from Driving for Six Months After Speeding Incident

Former Verve frontman Richard Ashcroft faces a six-month driving ban and fine after being caught speeding on the M4 in Brentford.

A Speeding Ticket with Big Consequences

If you’ve ever found yourself hitting the gas a little too hard on the motorway, Richard Ashcroft’s recent driving ban might make you think twice. The iconic voice behind The Verve has been banned from driving for six months after being caught speeding last year. The news hit the headlines after Ashcroft was sentenced at Lavender Hill Magistrates’ Court in London on January 7th.

The charge? Traveling 8mph over the 40mph limit on an elevated stretch of the M4 in Brentford back in February 2024. While that might not sound like a huge offense, Ashcroft’s history behind the wheel added extra weight to the penalty.

A Troubled Driving Record

Here’s the kicker: Ashcroft already had nine penalty points on his license from three previous speeding offences between 2022 and 2024. This latest incident tacked on an additional three points, tipping him over the edge and resulting in the six-month ban. He was also ordered to pay a fine totaling £2,755 (roughly $3,300 USD).

The court did this without Ashcroft’s presence; he was absent but pleaded guilty through his defense, Conall Bailie, who cited an unchangeable prior commitment. District Judge Daniel Benjamin didn’t mince words, emphasizing that Ashcroft’s speeding had put other road users at "risk of harm."

A Busy 2025 and Beyond

Despite the driving hiccup, 2025 was a banner year for Ashcroft’s music career. He took center stage as the opening act for all of Oasis’ highly anticipated UK and Ireland comeback shows during July and August, thrilling fans old and new alike. Later in the year, he joined the band for their South American tour in November, proving he’s still a powerful force on stage.

One magical moment from those comeback gigs happened in Cardiff when a fan went viral for Shazamming The Verve’s immortal classic, “Bittersweet Symphony.” Ashcroft reacted warmly to the moment, calling it "a beautiful thing" that brought a new fan into the fold.

“Be proud! Why should everyone know everything? They may have only heard that song before England play football on ITV,” Ashcroft said. “If someone doesn’t recognize a famous painting, so what? We can’t be cultural snobs. I’d love to get her on stage with her phone when I’m doing ‘Bitter Sweet’. That would be really funny.”

Looking Ahead: A Promising 2026

The momentum doesn’t stop there. Ashcroft is gearing up for an exciting 2026 with a string of UK arena shows scheduled for March and April, celebrating his seventh solo album Lovin’ You, which dropped in October 2025. Fans eager for his signature soulful vocals and reflective lyrics have plenty to look forward to.

This isn’t just a solo journey—he’ll headline some major festivals too, including Sheffield’s Rock N’ Roll Circus, Portsmouth’s Victorious Festival, Warrington’s Neighbourhood Weekender, and Glasgow’s TRNSMT Festival. With a packed itinerary, Ashcroft remains a fixture in the live music scene.

Richard Ashcroft’s Comeback Interview

Dive deeper into Ashcroft’s recent reflections and upcoming plans with his candid comeback interview:

Watch on YouTube

Wrapping It Up

Richard Ashcroft’s driving ban might be a setback on the road, but his musical journey is clearly still in high gear. From supporting Oasis during their nostalgic reunion tours to headlining major festivals and launching new solo work, Ashcroft continues to charm and captivate audiences worldwide. It’s a reminder that while we all make mistakes, passion and talent can keep the show going strong.

FAQ

• How long is Richard Ashcroft’s driving ban?
  He is banned from driving for six months.
• What caused the driving ban?
  Ashcroft was caught speeding 8mph over the 40mph limit on the M4 in Brentford.
• Did Ashcroft have prior speeding offenses?
  Yes, he had nine points from three previous speeding offenses between 2022 and 2024.
• What fine was Ashcroft ordered to pay?
  He was fined £2,755 (about $3,300 USD).
• What are some upcoming events for Richard Ashcroft?
  He will play UK arena shows in March and April 2026, and headline major festivals including Rock N’ Roll Circus, Victorious Festival, Neighbourhood Weekender, and TRNSMT.

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