He also represented the Italy national team, and was a member of the squad that reached the final of the 1970 FIFA World Cup.

After being acquired by the senior team during the 1960–61 season, but not making any appearances, at the beginning of his club career, Poletti initially played on loan for AC Asti (1961–62) in Serie D, making his professional debut with the club, and scoring 2 goals in 24 appearances, before returning to Torino the following season.

[4][5][6] Poletti earned six caps for the Italy national team between 1965 and 1970, making his debut on 16 June 1965 against Sweden.

He also notably played for Italy in the 1970 FIFA World Cup Semi-final victory against West Germany, known as "the Match of the Century", coming on for the injured Roberto Rosato in extra-time; despite their performance, he and the Italian goalkeeper Albertosi are often held responsible for Gerd Müller's goal, due to a defensive misunderstanding between the two players.

[1][7] In January 1978, Poletti replaced Gianfranco Bozzao as Suzzara's coach in Serie D, but was unable to prevent the team's relegation to the Promozione league division.