Australian international footballer Cristian Volpato is being investigated by police after allegedly testing positive for cocaine during a roadside drug screening following two separate speeding stops in Sydney.
The 22-year-old midfielder, who recently represented Australia at the FIFA World Cup, is now awaiting the outcome of further laboratory testing as authorities continue their investigation.
Two Speeding Stops Within Hours
According to New South Wales Police, officers first stopped Volpato shortly after 11 p.m.
on Thursday on Sydney’s Anzac Bridge after he was allegedly driving between 86km/h and 94km/h in an area with a 60km/h speed limit.
Police carried out a roadside breath test during the initial stop, which reportedly returned a negative result for alcohol, allowing the encounter to conclude without any alcohol-related action.
However, officers intercepted the midfielder again approximately two hours later after he was allegedly travelling at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone.
Alleged Positive Drug Screening
During the second traffic stop, police conducted a roadside oral fluid test, which allegedly produced a positive indication for cocaine.
Authorities stressed that the roadside screening is only a preliminary test.
A second oral fluid sample has since been collected and submitted for detailed laboratory analysis to confirm the result.
Police said investigations remain ongoing while they await the outcome of those tests.
Licence Suspended Following Traffic Offences
In addition to the investigation into the alleged drug test, Volpato was issued an infringement notice for speeding.
Authorities also suspended his international driver’s licence for six months, meaning he is prohibited from driving anywhere in New South Wales during that period.
Further legal action, if any, will depend on the results of the laboratory examination and the outcome of the police investigation.
Rising Football Career Faces Unwanted Spotlight
The incident comes just months after Volpato made headlines for committing his international future to Australia after previously being linked with Italy.
The attacking midfielder went on to feature for the Socceroos at the recent FIFA World Cup and continues his club career with Italian Serie A side Sassuolo.
Football Authorities Yet to Respond
Both Football Australia and Sassuolo have reportedly been approached for comment regarding the allegations.
Neither organisation had issued a public statement at the time of reporting, while police continue examining the circumstances surrounding the incident and await confirmation from laboratory testing.
