Arturo Vidal, current captain of Colo-Colo, admitted that the drunk-driving accident he was involved in during the 2015 Copa América was a major turning point in both his personal life and professional career. Speaking on his YouTube channel El Reinado, the Chilean midfielder recalled how he navigated those days between the crash and the tournament final.

“Playing after an accident isn’t easy”

Vidal opened up about the emotional contrast of going from a life-threatening moment—he and his wife could’ve been seriously injured—to playing just two days later in one of the toughest competitions in football. He acknowledged that some questioned his presence in the squad, but also emphasized the strong support he received from the Chilean public.

A turning point… and gratitude

Now back with Colo-Colo, Vidal also expressed his gratitude toward the fans, his family, the Chilean FA, and even then-president Sergio Jadue, for allowing him to return to La Roja and finish the Copa América, a tournament he would ultimately go on to win.

An accident that could’ve ended much worse

The crash—Vidal behind the wheel of a Ferrari—led to his brief detention and a legal process. He had to meet several conditions, including license suspension, signing in with authorities, and participating in community service programs. The case was eventually resolved through a conditional suspension.

The legacy of that night

Ten years on, Vidal says the experience “changed his life”—not just because of what could have happened, but because it gave him perspective and maturity to better value his career and his responsibilities as a public figure.