Socceroos forward Cristian Volpato has allegedly tested positive for cocaine after being stopped while driving almost 50km/h over the speed limit in Sydney. The 22-year-old was one of Australia’s breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup, but now finds himself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. According to NSW Police, Volpato was driving a BMW Coupe at 109km/h in a 60km/h zone across Anzac Bridge around 1:10am on Friday.
The Incident: Speeding and Drug Test
Police allege that Volpato was initially stopped two hours earlier on Anzac Bridge, west of Sydney’s CBD, and issued an infringement notice for driving more than 20km/h over the limit. A roadside alcohol breath test at about 11:05pm Thursday returned a negative result. However, when he was pulled over a second time, a roadside drug test allegedly returned a positive result for cocaine.
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A secondary sample of oral fluid was taken for further analysis, and NSW Police confirmed it will continue its inquiries. Volpato was issued an infringement notice for speeding and had his international driver’s licence suspended for six months, meaning he cannot drive in New South Wales. He has not been charged with a criminal offence.
Volpato’s Career and Background
Born and raised in Sydney, Volpato played junior football at Sydney United 58, Sydney FC, and Western Sydney Wanderers before moving overseas to join Serie A club Roma. After two seasons, he transferred to Sassuolo, where he has scored seven goals in three seasons. He represented Italy at under-19 and under-20 level before switching his international allegiance to Australia on the eve of the World Cup. At the 2026 World Cup, he made three appearances as the Socceroos progressed to the round of 32 before losing to Egypt.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Cristian Volpato |
| Age | 22 |
| Club | Sassuolo (Italy) |
| National Team | Socceroos |
| Alleged Speed | 109 km/h in 60 km/h zone |
| Drug Test Result | Positive for cocaine (alleged) |
| Licence Suspension | 6 months (NSW) |
Key Takeaways
- Cocaine detected in roadside drug test – confirmatory analysis pending.
- Volpato was speeding excessively, 49 km/h over the limit.
- His international driver’s licence has been suspended for six months.
- Football Australia has been contacted for comment.
- The star’s future with the Socceroos could be impacted pending investigations.
FAQ
What exactly happened with Cristian Volpato?
Volpato was pulled over twice in Sydney early Friday morning. On the second stop, he allegedly tested positive for cocaine during a roadside drug test. He was also caught driving 49 km/h over the speed limit.
Has Volpato been charged with a crime?
No criminal charges have been filed. He received infringement notices for speeding and his licence was suspended, but police are continuing their inquiries.
What does this mean for his football career?
The incident could affect his standing with the Socceroos and his club Sassuolo. Football Australia has not yet commented, but such allegations often lead to internal or external investigations and potential disciplinary action.
This development is a significant setback for a player who was seen as a key part of Australia’s soccer future. The outcome of the secondary drug test will likely determine the next steps for both Volpato and the authorities.
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