Chopin Competition Runner-Up Kyohei Sorita Faces Jail for Speeding

Kyohei Sorita, runner-up of the 2021 International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw, faces up to three months in jail after police in Japan charged him with a serious speeding violation.

Prosecutors allege Sorita drove at 144 kilometres per hour last December in a zone where the limit is 60kph. That is more than double the legal maximum.

Sorita has admitted the charge, according to police. He has also issued a statement on his website apologizing for causing concern and trouble to many people.

The court will pronounce sentence on October 29.

What are the consequences for Sorita?

If found guilty, the pianist could receive a jail term of up to three months under Japanese law. The charge, filed by police in Japan, concerns the single December incident.

The case's key facts:

• Alleged speed: 144kph in a 60kph zone, last December
• Charge: serious speeding violation, filed by Japanese police
• Maximum penalty: three months in jail
• Admission: Sorita has admitted the charge
• Sentencing date: October 29

Sorita rose to international prominence in October 2021, when he took second prize at the International Chopin Competition in Warsaw, one of classical music's most closely watched contests.

What happens on October 29?

The sentencing will determine whether the pianist receives a custodial penalty, a fine, or another sanction. Until then, Sorita's public position rests on his written apology. The outcome on October 29 will show whether Japan's traffic courts treat a celebrated concert pianist like any other driver caught at 144kph in a 60kph zone.