Australian World Cup star Christian Volpato is said to have tested positive for cocaine while driving after being stopped by police in Sydney. The 22-year-old was reportedly stopped by authorities twice for speeding.
NSW Police said Mr Volpato was initially stopped in a BMW coupe for speeding around 11pm. He was allegedly traveling in a speed zone of 86 to 94 m/h and a speed of 60 km/h. A breath test taken on the road came back negative.
The midfielder was stopped for a second time two hours later for driving at 109km/h in a 60km/h zone at Anzac Bridge. A drug test was conducted on the street and the result was positive for cocaine. A second saliva test was performed for additional testing.
Volpato reportedly received a speeding fine, had his international driver’s license suspended for six months and was banned from driving in New South Wales. He has not been charged criminally and police confirmed the investigation continues.
He appeared in three games for Australia during the World Cup. After coming on as an unused substitute in the opening game against Turkey, he played in the remaining two group stage games against the United States and Paraguay, as well as the Round of 32 penalty shootout loss against Egypt.
Volpato changed his international allegiance to Australia in May, despite previously representing Italy at youth level. His only international appearance prior to the World Cup came in a friendly against Switzerland in June.
In a statement carried by Australian broadcaster ABC, Football Australia confirmed it was “aware of the allegations involving one of our players”.
He added: “We have been in contact with the players and will continue to monitor this matter and support them throughout this process.
“Volpato was born and raised in Sydney but moved to Italy in 2020 to join Roma’s youth team.
He moved to fellow Serie A side Sassuolo in 2023, making 26 appearances in all competitions last season.
