Arabic version: فولباتو يواجه ادعاءً بتعاطي الكوكايين بعد توقيفه مرتين بسبب السرعة في سيدني

According to BBC News, Australia midfielder Cristian Volpato allegedly tested positive for cocaine after police stopped him twice for speeding in Sydney on the same night.

New South Wales police said the 22-year-old was stopped in a BMW Coupe on the Anzac Bridge at 11:05pm local time on Thursday after travelling between 86-94km/h in a 60km/h zone. A roadside breath test returned a negative result.

Police said Volpato was stopped again two hours later after allegedly travelling at 109km/h in the same 60km/h zone. He allegedly returned a positive cocaine result, while a secondary oral-fluid sample was taken for further analysis. Police said their inquiries would continue.

Volpato was issued an infringement notice for excess speed and his international driver’s licence was suspended for six months, meaning he cannot drive in New South Wales. Football Australia said it had contacted the player and would monitor the matter and support him throughout the process. Professional Footballers Australia said it was aware of the reports and would ensure he was supported.

Volpato switched international allegiance from Italy to Australia in May and played in three of the Socceroos’ four World Cup matches as they reached the round of 32. He has been with Serie A club Sassuolo since 2023, making 24 league appearances as the club finished 11th last season. BBC Sport has approached Sassuolo for comment.