Xhaka under investigation for fake certificate

Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka is being investigated by Swiss prosecutors over allegations he obtained a forged Covid-19 vaccination certificate in 2022, when it was required for some travel abroad.

Xhaka admits to the mistake

The 33-year-old Sunderland midfielder said he had mistrust towards the vaccine and was influenced by worries and uncertainty when he obtained the certificate instead of asking proper questions.

“In this troubled state of mind I acquired a vaccine certificate, instead of clarifying my unanswered questions in the proper way.”

Certificate was needed for travel and venues

While Switzerland never had a general legal requirement to hold a Covid-19 certificate, it was needed for access to various activities, venues and travel until spring 2022. After that, certificates were mainly for meeting entry requirements when travelling abroad.

Precedent: ice hockey coach's punishment

In 2023, Switzerland ice hockey coach Patrick Fischer was found guilty of using a fake Covid-19 certificate at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. He was fined 38,000 Swiss francs and later banned for four years by the International Ice Hockey Federation.

Xhaka withdraws from Nations League matches

Xhaka has withdrawn from Switzerland's upcoming Nations League matches against Scotland, North Macedonia and Slovenia. The Swiss Football Association said the decision was made jointly by the player and management, and they will discuss his future after the international window.

Record appearance holder faces uncertain future

Xhaka is Switzerland's record appearance holder with 152 caps and captained the team at this year's World Cup. It remains unclear what punishments he could face from the criminal investigation.