Cristian Volpato, the 22-year-old Australia international winger, has tested positive for cocaine following a roadside drug test in Sydney, according to reports. New South Wales Police stopped the Sassuolo player twice for speeding in the early hours of Friday morning, ultimately suspending his international driver's licence for six months.
The incident occurred when Volpato was driving a BMW at 109 km/h in a 60 km/h zone on Anzac Bridge. Police issued a speeding infringement notice and conducted a roadside drug test, which returned a positive result for cocaine. The suspension of his driving privileges marks a significant development in what has become a serious off-field matter for the young forward.
Football Australia and PFA Pledge Support
Football Australia and the Professional Footballers Australia union have released statements confirming their support for the player during this challenging period. A Football Australia spokesperson said: "We have been in contact with the player and continue to monitor the matter and support the player throughout this process." The PFA echoed similar sentiments, committing to ensure Volpato receives necessary support as authorities investigate.
The timing of this controversy is particularly sensitive. Volpato only recently switched his international allegiance from Italy to Australia in May 2026, turning down a Socceroos call-up before the 2022 World Cup to prioritize his club career at Roma. His late change of heart secured him a place in Australia's 2026 World Cup squad, making this incident all the more disruptive to his international prospects.
Disciplinary Questions Loom
Volpato now faces potential consequences on multiple fronts. Sassuolo, his Serie A club, and Football Australia may pursue internal disciplinary action. Neither his management nor the Italian club has commented publicly as they await developments from the police investigation. The situation threatens to derail his pre-season preparations and raises serious questions about his immediate future with the national team heading into critical international fixtures.
