One of the standout faces of the Australia national team at the 2026 World Cup unexpectedly became the center of attention following an incident on the streets of Sydney.
Australia national team midfielder Cristian Volpato was pulled over by police at around 1:10 a.m. on Friday on the Anzac Bridge, west of central Sydney. The 22-year-old player was accused of driving his BMW Coupe at a speed of 109 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.
During the traffic stop, New South Wales state police conducted a roadside rapid drug test. The results showed Volpato tested positive for the illicit substance cocaine.
A second oral fluid sample was subsequently taken and sent for in-depth analysis. This is a procedure aimed at confirming the initial result and ruling out the possibility of errors during the rapid test.
Football Australia has been contacted by the media for comment. The incident could significantly impact Volpato’s image as well as his future with the national team, especially if the second test sample confirms the initial result.
The scandal occurred not long after Volpato became one of Australia’s notable discoveries at the 2026 World Cup. He made three appearances and served as an important attacking option for the Socceroos.
The Australian team advanced through the group stage in second place before bowing out against Egypt in the round of 32. Volpato was regarded as one of the young players capable of playing an important role in the national team’s long-term plans.
Volpato was born and raised in Australia. He later moved to Italy, joining Roma before signing for Sassuolo. The player born in 2003 previously represented Italy’s U19 and U20 teams. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Volpato decided to switch allegiances to represent the Australia national team.
