Socceroos star Cristian Volpato suspended after positive drug test
Socceroos midfielder Cristian Volpato faces a six-month driving ban in New South Wales and an ongoing Football Australia review after testing positive for cocaine during a speeding stop in Sydney. The 22-year-old was twice pulled over by police on the same night, with his international licence now invalid until early 2027.
How the Sydney traffic stop unfolded
Volpato was first stopped at 11:05pm on Thursday night while driving a BMW Coupe over the Anzac Bridge. Police clocked him doing 86-94km/h in a 60km/h zone and issued an infringement notice for speeding. A roadside breath test came back negative, but two hours later he was caught again doing 109km/h in the same zone. This second stop led to the positive cocaine finding in his oral fluid sample. NSW police confirmed the secondary test was sent for further analysis and their investigation remains ongoing.
Volpato’s role in Australia’s 2026 World Cup run
Volpato played three of Australia’s four matches at the 2026 World Cup, helping the Socceroos reach the round of 32 before a penalty shootout loss to Egypt on 2026-07-03. The midfielder switched allegiance from Italy to Australia in May 2026, just before the squad announcement. At club level he has featured 24 times for Sassuolo in Serie A, with the team finishing 11th last season.
Official reaction and what happens next
Football Australia said they have been in contact with Volpato and are monitoring the matter while supporting him through the process. Players’ union Professional Footballers Australia also confirmed they are aware of the reports and will ensure he receives backing. Sassuolo has been approached for comment but had not responded at the time of writing. Volpato’s international licence suspension runs until early 2027, leaving his World Cup 2026 participation status uncertain.
Last result: Australia 1-1 Egypt (2026-07-03). Recent form (last 5): 1W-3D-1L (DDLWD, most recent first). Next fixture: vs Brazil (at home, 2026-09-25).
