Overview

• Armin Laschet, former CDU leader and ex-Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia, was caught speeding in Aachen in July 2024, driving 97 km/h in a 50 km/h zone.
• Laschet initially contested the €428.50 fine, two points on his driving record, and a one-month driving ban but later withdrew his objection in March 2025.
• He claimed he had accelerated due to feeling threatened by unknown men following him, referencing prior threats he received during his political career.
• Police investigations found no evidence of the alleged pursuers, and no criminal investigation was initiated.
• Laschet publicly acknowledged his mistake, emphasized that no one was endangered, and described the incident as a distressing experience he has now resolved.