Former FPÖ chairman and transport minister Norbert Hofer was forced to surrender his driver’s license on Friday following a positive breathalyzer test. Reports indicate the current member of the Burgenland state parliament allegedly had a blood alcohol level of 2.48 per mille after his vehicle reportedly struck a traffic island and nearly entered a ditch while traveling from Styria to Pinkafeld.
Did You Know? Norbert Hofer, who transitioned to a role as Vice President for Strategic Communications at the Graz-based firm Emerald Horizon in February 2026, previously served as the federal party chairman of the FPÖ and as a candidate in the 2016 Austrian presidential election.
Circumstances of the incident
The incident occurred on Friday afternoon during the politician’s commute. According to reports, the vehicle struck a traffic island, drifted into the oncoming lane, and nearly veered into a roadside ditch. Following a witness report, police tracked the vehicle to Hofer’s residence, where they encountered the politician next to his car.
Authorities report that Hofer denied being the driver at the time of the incident. Furthermore, he declined to undergo a judicially admissible breathalyzer test at the scene.
Expert Insight: The stakes of public accountability
Expert Insight: For a former cabinet minister and high-ranking party official, the refusal to perform a formal breathalyzer test creates significant legal and public perception challenges. Because he holds an elected office in the state parliament, the eventual administrative and legal consequences will likely be subject to intense public scrutiny regarding the standards expected of political representatives.
Potential next steps
Hofer faces the immediate loss of his driving privileges as authorities proceed with the case. In a statement released Saturday afternoon, he acknowledged the event, stating, “It is my fault. I have never made such a mistake before and will, of course, bear all the consequences that the authority will now take in this context.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the alleged blood alcohol level?
According to reports, the politician had a blood alcohol level of 2.48 per mille.
Did Norbert Hofer confirm the incident?
Yes, in a statement provided on Saturday, he expressed regret and stated that he would accept the consequences imposed by the authorities.
Is Hofer currently serving as an FPÖ chairman?
No. He resigned as the FPÖ Burgenland club chairman at the end of 2025 and currently serves as a simple member of the state parliament while working in the private sector.
How should public figures be held accountable when their private actions conflict with their professional responsibilities?
