Daniel Maldini to be dropped from Italy squad after crash
Maldini hospitalized after Sept. 13 crash; tests showed alcohol and drugs, and both Italy and Cagliari are preparing sanctions.
Daniel Maldini faces immediate disciplinary consequences after a traffic accident that left him in hospital on September 13, 2026, following a match in which he had scored the decisive goal for Cagliari on September 12, 2026.
Medical and police tests conducted after the crash reportedly showed that Maldini was over the legal alcohol limit and positive for prohibited substances. Two separate blood-alcohol readings returned 0.91 mg/L and 0.89 mg/L respectively, and authorities say additional tests detected illegal drugs.
National team and club response
Italian outlets report that Maldini will be removed from the Italy squad where he had been expected to join, and that Cagliari will impose internal sanctions; the exact sporting or contractual penalties have not been made public.
The collision involved six people, sources say. Maldini was taken to hospital after the incident; details about injuries to others have not been disclosed.
The episode is developing and could carry both criminal and sporting consequences for the 21-year-old forward if investigations and disciplinary procedures proceed.
Photo: press material from the event
