Australia World Cup midfielder Cristian Volpato has reportedly returned a positive cocaine test after being pulled over twice for speeding in Sydney on the same night.
Police said the 22-year-old was first stopped in a BMW coupe on the Anzac Bridge at 11:05pm on Thursday after being clocked at 86–94km/h in a 60km/h zone. A roadside breath test was negative.
About two hours later, he was stopped again in the same 60km/h zone, this time travelling at 109km/h, and allegedly produced a positive roadside result for cocaine.
New South Wales Police said Volpato received an infringement notice for excessive speed and had his international driver’s licence suspended for six months, barring him from driving in NSW. Officers added that inquiries are ongoing and a secondary oral-fluid sample has been sent for further analysis.
Volpato featured in three of Australia’s four World Cup matches as the Socceroos reached the round of 32 before losing to Egypt on penalties.
After representing Italy at youth level, he switched to Australia in May ahead of the tournament squad announcement.
The midfielder has been with Serie A club Sassuolo since 2023, making 24 league appearances last season as the team finished 11th.
Football Australia said it has been in contact with Volpato and will continue to monitor the situation and support him. The players’ union, Professional Footballers Australia, said it is aware of the reports and will ensure he is supported.
BBC Sport has sought comment from Sassuolo.