Australian World Cup player Cristian Volpato charged with speeding and cocaine after drug test

Sydney police announced that Australian soccer midfielder Cristian Volpato, who transferred his international allegiance from Italy to Australia ahead of the 2026 World Cup, failed a roadside drug test on Tuesday. The 23‑year‑old was stopped by officers on the M4 motorway near the city’s western suburbs and was found to have a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit, according to a statement released by the New South Wales Police Force.

Volpato, a key figure in the Socceroos’ qualifying campaign, has not yet commented publicly on the incident. The Football Federation Australia confirmed that the matter will be referred to its disciplinary committee, which will determine any sporting sanctions in line with its code of conduct. Legal proceedings are expected to follow standard protocol for drink‑driving offenses, and the player faces potential court penalties in addition to possible suspension from club and national team duties. The incident comes as Australia prepares its squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, raising questions about the impact on Volpato’s role in the team.