Exeter City footballer faces drink driving charge

Exeter City winger Ilmari Niskanen has been charged with driving with excess alcohol and is due to appear at Exeter Magistrates’ Court.

The club confirmed the charge and stated that it is treating the matter with the utmost gravity. A formal internal investigation will commence once legal proceedings have concluded.

Niskanen has issued a public statement expressing deep regret for his actions.

“I recently made a very serious and bad mistake. A mistake that nobody should ever do, least of all a person who should be a role model to others. I am terribly sorry and fully regret my actions. I deeply regret the impact they may have on our club, my teammates, and our supporters both here in Exeter and back home in Finland.

“I’m very grateful that my actions that night did not impact any other people but know that even risking something happening to someone else is thoughtless and wrong. I will take full responsibility and deal with all the possible consequences. I know I have let all of you down, but I will do everything in my power to make things right and I am committed to making amends in every way possible.”

Drink driving is a serious offence, and the legal process will determine the next steps. Exeter City has reiterated that it will not comment further until after the court hearing.

Niskanen, 26, joined the club in 2023 and has been a key figure in the squad. His immediate playing future remains uncertain pending the outcome of the case.