Summary
Australia’s World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, and now one of the team’s players is facing legal scrutiny after allegedly testing positive for cocaine following two speeding incidents.
The Socceroos were eliminated in the Round of 32 after drawing 1-1 with Egypt before losing 4-2 in a penalty shootout. Earlier in the tournament, Australia defeated Turkiye 2-0 in Group D, lost 2-0 to the United States, and played out a goalless draw against Paraguay.
Following their exit, criticism focused on head coach Tony Popovic’s decision to have two defenders take penalties. Now, one of the players who featured in that match is the subject of an ongoing police investigation.
Cristian Volpato Allegedly Tests Positive for Cocaine
Australian winger Cristian Volpato made his first appearance at a senior international tournament at just 22 years old, featuring in three of Australia’s four World Cup matches.
According to reports, three weeks after Australia’s elimination, Volpato allegedly tested positive for cocaine during a traffic stop on the night of July 24.
Police reportedly stopped the Sassuolo winger while he was driving a BMW Coupe across Sydney’s Anzac Bridge at approximately 11:05 p.m., after allegedly recording speeds between 86 km/h and 94 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.
A roadside breath test reportedly returned a negative result, allowing him to continue driving.
However, authorities allegedly stopped him again around two hours later after he was reportedly detected traveling at 109 km/h in the same 60 km/h speed zone.
During the second stop, a roadside drug test allegedly indicated the presence of cocaine. New South Wales Police subsequently issued an infringement notice for excessive speeding.
Driver’s Licence Suspended Pending Further Investigation
As part of the investigation, Volpato’s international driver’s licence has reportedly been suspended for six months, preventing him from driving in New South Wales.
Police have also collected a second oral fluid sample for further laboratory analysis, and the investigation remains ongoing.
At this stage, no final determination has been announced regarding the alleged drug test.
Football Australia and Players’ Union Respond
Following the reports, Football Australia confirmed it is aware of the situation and stated that it has been in contact with the player.
The governing body said it will continue to monitor the matter while providing support to Volpato throughout the process.
The Professional Footballers Australia players’ union also acknowledged the reports, stating that it is aware of the situation and will ensure the player receives appropriate support.
After Australia’s World Cup campaign concluded, Volpato had been on scheduled leave before preparing to rejoin Sassuolo for pre-season training.
Volpato Recently Chose Australia Over Italy
Before committing to Australia at senior level, Volpato represented Italy during his youth international career.
He officially switched his international allegiance in May, shortly before Tony Popovic announced Australia’s World Cup squad, allowing him to make his senior debut for the Socceroos at the tournament.
Potential Sporting Consequences if the Allegations Are Confirmed
If the alleged cocaine use is ultimately confirmed, Volpato could face consequences beyond the current driving-related penalties.
Under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code, which is enforced by FIFA, Football Australia, and the Italian Football Federation, cocaine is classified as a Substance of Abuse.
According to WADA regulations, if an athlete can demonstrate that the substance was used outside of competition, the standard period of ineligibility may be reduced to three months.
That sanction may be reduced further to one month if the athlete successfully completes an approved treatment and rehabilitation program.
In addition to any anti-doping sanctions, Football Australia could pursue disciplinary action if appropriate. Possible measures include suspension from national team selection, financial penalties, mandatory community service, or other disciplinary actions.
At the club level, disciplinary consequences may also include fines, temporary suspensions, or contractual measures, depending on the circumstances and the outcome of the investigation.
At present, the matter remains under investigation, and no anti-doping ruling or formal sporting sanction has been announced.