Cristian Volpato, a star for the Socceroos, allegedly tested positive for cocaine after being stopped by police for speeding on two occasions in Sydney on the same night.

The 22-year-old Australian midfielder was pulled over in a BMW Coupe on the Anzac Bridge at 11:05pm local time on Thursday night. According to police, he was driving at speeds ranging from 86-94km/h in a 60km/h zone.

He underwent a roadside breath test, which returned a negative result. However, Volpato allegedly produced a positive result for cocaine when he was stopped two hours later for driving at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone.

New South Wales state police reported that Volpato received an infringement notice for speeding, and his international driver’s license has been suspended for six months, preventing him from driving in New South Wales.

The police announced that an inquiry is ongoing, and a secondary sample of oral fluid was collected for further analysis.

Volpato participated in three of Australia’s four World Cup matches as the team reached the round of 32, where they were eliminated by Egypt in a penalty shootout.

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

Volpato has been playing for Serie A club Sassuolo since 2023, making 24 league appearances as they finished 11th in the league last season.

Football Australia stated, "We have been in contact with the player and continue to monitor the matter and support the player throughout this process." The players' union, Professional Footballers Australia, confirmed that it is "aware of reports concerning Cristian Volpato and will ensure he is supported."

BBC Sport has reached out to Sassuolo for a comment.

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