Australian World Cup star Cristian Volpato has allegedly tested positive for cocaine while driving, after being stopped by police in Sydney. The 22-year-old was reportedly stopped by the authorities on two separate occasions for speeding.
According to the New South Wales police Volpato was initially stopped in his BMW Coupe at around 11pm for speeding. He was allegedly doing 86-94m/h in and 60km/h zone. A roadside breath test is said to have come back negative.
The midfielder was then pulled over for a second time two hours later for driving at 109km/h in a 60km/h zone on the Anzac Bridge. A roadside drug test was carried out and allegedly returned a positive result for cocaine. A second saliva test was taken for additional testing.
Volpato received a speeding penalty and is reported to have had his international driving licence suspended for six months, prohibiting him from driving in New South Wales. He has not faced criminal charges, and police have confirmed their investigations will continue.
He made three appearances for Australia throughout their World Cup campaign. Following his role as an unused substitute during the opening match against Turkey, he took part in the remaining two group fixtures against the USA and Paraguay, as well as the round of 32 penalty shootout defeat to Egypt.
Volpato changed his international allegiance to Australia in May, despite having previously represented Italy at youth level. His sole appearance for the nation ahead of the World Cup came during a friendly fixture against Switzerland in June.
In a statement reported by Australian broadcaster ABC, Football Australia confirmed it “was aware of the allegations involving one of our players.”
They added: “We have been in contact with the player and continue to monitor the matter and support the player throughout this process.
“Volpato was born and brought up in Sydney, but relocated to Italy in 2020 to join Roma’s youth academy.
He transferred to fellow Serie A outfit Sassuolo in 2023, featuring in 26 matches across all competitions during the previous campaign.