Socceroos midfielder Cristian Volpato has allegedly tested positive for cocaine after being stopped twice for speeding in Sydney on the same night, according to New South Wales Police.
The 22-year-old was first pulled over while driving a BMW Coupe on the Anzac Bridge at around 11:05 p.m. local time on Thursday after allegedly travelling between 86km/h and 94km/h in a 60km/h speed zone.
Volpato underwent a roadside breath test, which returned a negative result.
However, police allege the Australia international tested positive for cocaine during a second traffic stop approximately two hours later, after he was reportedly detected travelling at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone.
New South Wales Police said Volpato was issued an infringement notice for excessive speeding, while his international driver's licence was suspended for six months, preventing him from driving in the state. Authorities added that a secondary oral fluid sample had been collected for further laboratory analysis, with investigations ongoing.
Volpato featured in three of Australia's four matches at the FIFA World Cup, helping the Socceroos reach the Round of 32 before they were eliminated by Egypt in a penalty shootout.
Having previously represented Italy at youth level, Volpato switched his international allegiance to Australia in May ahead of the World Cup.
The midfielder has been with Serie A club Sassuolo since 2023 and made 24 league appearances last season as the Italian side finished 11th in the table.
Football Australia confirmed it is aware of the matter, saying: "We have been in contact with the player and continue to monitor the matter and support the player throughout this process."
The Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) also issued a statement, saying it is "aware of reports concerning Cristian Volpato and will ensure he is supported."
No criminal or anti-doping findings have been made at this stage. The allegations remain under investigation, and Volpato is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until any legal or disciplinary process determines otherwise.
