Sydney speed bust exposes Australian World Cup star's cocaine test

Sydney police arrested 22‑year‑old Australian World Cup participant Cristian Volpato on Thursday after two separate incidents, including a 50 km/h speed breach, and later confirmed a positive cocaine test following his second offence. The footballer, who featured for Australia in three matches at the tournament, faces further legal and sporting consequences.

After the first stop, an alcohol test came back negative. Two hours later, following a second traffic violation, a drug test returned a positive result for cocaine.

Volpato has already paid a fine for the speeding offence, having been recorded 50 kilometres per hour over the limit. The penalty was issued promptly by Sydney authorities.

Police said they are waiting for an official confirmation of the drug‑test outcome before any additional action is taken. The investigation remains open pending that verification.

The 22‑year‑old plays for Serie A side Sassuolo and previously represented Italy at youth levels. He switched allegiance to the Socceroos shortly before the World Cup and earned three of the four possible appearances.

At the World Cup, Australia reached the second round before being eliminated by Egypt in a penalty shoot‑out. Volpato’s involvement in those matches underscores the profile of the player now facing disciplinary scrutiny.