Cristian Volpato: Australia midfielder allegedly tests positive for cocaine after speeding in Sydney

Socceroos World Cup star Cristian Volpato has allegedly tested positive for cocaine after police stopped him twice for speeding in Sydney on the same night.

Police said the 22-year-old Australian midfielder was stopped in a BMW Coupe on the Anzac Bridge at 11.05pm local time on Thursday night after he was caught traveling between 86-94km/h in a 60km/h zone.

He was subjected to a roadside breath test, which returned a negative result.

However, Volpato allegedly tested positive for cocaine when stopped two hours later for traveling at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone.

New South Wales state police said Volpato was issued an infringement notice for speeding and his international license was suspended for six months, meaning he could not drive in New South Wales.

Police also said their investigation will continue and a second oral fluid sample will be taken for further analysis.

Volpato played in three of Australia’s four World Cup matches, reaching the last 32 and being eliminated in a penalty shoot-out by Egypt.

After representing Italy at youth level, he switched allegiance to Australia in May, just before the Socceroos announced their squad for the tournament.

Volpato has been playing for Serie A team Sassuolo since 2023 and made 24 league appearances for the club, which finished 11th last season.

BBC Sport has approached Football Australia and Sassuolo for comment.