Austrian politician Norbert Hofer, a former transport minister and once a near-winner of the presidency, has lost his driving license after being linked to an alleged drunk driving incident on Friday, according to Kronen Zeitung.
According to police reports, the incident occurred shortly before noon on Saturday. At around 11:38 a.m., a driver traveling from Styria toward Pinkafeld in Burgenland was seen driving erratically. The vehicle reportedly struck a traffic island, veered close to a roadside ditch, and at times crossed into the opposite lane, raising alarm among other motorists.
A concerned driver alerted emergency services, prompting a police search. Officers soon traced the vehicle to Hofer’s residence, where they found him standing next to the car in question.
Police carried out a preliminary breath test, which showed a blood alcohol level of 2.48 promille, far above the legal limit. However, Hofer refused to take a formal breathalyzer test, which is required for evidence admissible in court.
Initially, Hofer denied that he had been behind the wheel. Later in the day, he issued a statement expressing regret. “I am sorry. I have never made such a mistake before,” he said, adding that he would accept all consequences imposed by authorities.
The incident has led to the immediate suspension of his driving license. It is not the first time Hofer has lost his license, according to reports.
Hofer remains a member of the regional parliament in Burgenland for the Freedom Party (FPÖ). The case has drawn public attention not only because of the seriousness of the alleged offense, but also due to Hofer’s prominent political career, which includes serving as transport minister and narrowly losing Austria’s presidential election.
