A warrant has been issued for the arrest of former Formula One racing driver Eddie Irvine after he was caught speeding on a scooter with no licence and no insurance, court officials said on Thursday.

He was due to appear before Bow Street Magistrates on Wednesday for sentencing but failed to attend. A warrant with bail was then issued.

Irvine, 38, was arrested by London police in July for driving at over 30 mph (48 kph) through Hyde Park.

The Northern Irishman, world championship runner-up with Ferrari in 1999 when he also won four races, left Formula One at the end of last year after three seasons with Ford-owned Jaguar.

One of the highest paid drivers in the final years of his career, Irvine enjoyed a playboy reputation with a yacht, collection of fast cars and string of girlfriends as well as property interests around the world.

Source: Reuters