Australian World Cup star Cristian Volpato has been embroiled in a cocaine scandal after allegedly testing positive for the substance following two speeding incidents in Sydney. The 22-year-old midfielder, who represented Italy at youth level before switching to Australia, was stopped by police on the Anzac Bridge at 11:05pm local time on Thursday night after being caught travelling at 86-94km/h in a 60km/h zone.
Volpato was subjected to a roadside breath test, which returned a negative result, but a subsequent test allegedly revealed the presence of cocaine. He was stopped again two hours later for speeding at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone, resulting in an infringement notice for excess speed and a six-month suspension of his international driver's licence.
The police have stated that their inquiries will continue, with a secondary sample of oral fluid taken for further analysis. Volpato played a crucial role in Australia's World Cup campaign, featuring in three of their four matches. The team reached the round of 32 but were ultimately knocked out by Egypt in a penalty shootout.
Volpato's switch to Australia in May was a significant move, as he had previously represented Italy at youth level. His decision to join the Socceroos was made just before the team announced their World Cup squad. The 22-year-old has also made 24 league appearances for Serie A side Sassuolo since 2023, where they finished 11th last season.