Australia international, Cristian Volpato, is under police investigation after allegedly returning a positive roadside drug test for cocaine following two speeding incidents in Sydney on the same night.
According to New South Wales Police, the 22-year-old midfielder was first intercepted at about 11:05pm on Thursday while driving a BMW Coupe across the Anzac Bridge.
Officers alleged he was travelling between 86km/h and 94km/h in a 60km/h speed zone.
A roadside breathalyser conducted at the time produced a negative result.
Roughly two hours later, police stopped Volpato again after he was allegedly clocked driving at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone. During the second stop, he allegedly tested positive for cocaine in a roadside oral fluid test.
Police said Volpato received an infringement notice for speeding, while his international driver’s licence was suspended for six months, preventing him from driving in New South Wales.
Authorities added that investigations remain ongoing, with a secondary oral fluid sample collected for further laboratory analysis.
Volpato featured in three of Australia’s four matches at the FIFA World Cup, where the Socceroos reached the round of 32 before suffering a penalty shootout defeat to Egypt.
The midfielder, who previously represented Italy at youth level, switched his international allegiance to Australia in May shortly before being named in the Socceroos’ World Cup squad.
Since joining Serie A club Sassuolo in 2023, Volpato has made 24 league appearances, helping the Italian side finish 11th in the league last season.
“We have been in contact with the player and continue to monitor the matter and support the player throughout this process,” governing body Football Australia said.
Players’ union Professional Footballers Australia said it was “aware of reports concerning Cristian Volpato and will ensure he is supported”.
