World Cup star cleared of cocaine use following speeding arrest

News

FT Desk

Cristian Volpato, who starred for Australia at the 2026 World Cup, has tested negative for cocaine use after being stopped by police for driving over the speed limit in Sydney, according to 10 Sport.

The Sassuolo midfielder is currently spending time in his country of birth on holiday before reporting back to Italy as the club commences their Serie A campaign.

Volpato actually represented Italy at numerous age levels before deciding to switch allegiance to Australia ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where he made three appearances for the Socceroos and was considered one of the breakout players of the group stage.

According to New South Wales Police, Volpato was pulled over on Sydney's Anzac Bridge at around 1am on Friday after allegedly being detected travelling at 109km/h in a 59km/h zone.

10 Sport understands Cristian Volpato has completed an independent test, which sources claim came back negative.

The details surrounding the test remain unclear.

The secondary oral test, taken by police, will likely take weeks to come back. pic.twitter.com/hPIF0CVwt6

— 10 Sport (@10SportAU) July 24, 2026

He was pulled over two hours previously for driving 20km/h over the limit but was given a warning after alcohol tests were negative.

In his second offence, another alcohol test returned a negative result but a drug test apparently showed traces of cocaine, reports ABC News.

"We have been in contact with the player and continue to monitor the matter and support the player throughout this process," governing body Football Australia said.

Players' union Professional Footballers Australia said it was "aware of reports concerning Cristian Volpato and will ensure he is supported".

A secondary sample of oral fluid was taken for further analysis, and it came up clean.

The player did not receive any criminal charges ahead of the result of the secondary sample, and reports from Australia have suggested that he has claimed to have been spiked with the drug while on a night out in Sydney.

Volpate made 24 Serie A appearances for Sassuolo last season, scoring four goals and recording two assists.

In his youth he played for Sydney United, Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers before heading to Europe to begin his professional career with Roma.