The Sunderland captain obtained a forged Covid-19 vaccination certificate back in 2022, while he was still an Arsenal player, and has been dropped from Switzerland’s squad for their upcoming Nations League fixtures against Scotland, North Macedonia and Slovenia as a result.
The admission follows Swiss media reports that prosecutors in Lucerne were investigating whether Xhaka had obtained false certification or been involved in document forgery.
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The case is linked to a wider investigation into a doctor based in Lucerne, suspected of issuing fraudulent Covid-19 certificates, whose practice was searched by authorities in 2023. The doctor has denied any wrongdoing.
Xhaka addressed the matter directly in a statement posted to social media on Monday.
“In recent days, a lot has been reported about an issue from my past. I would like to address it personally.
“At the time, in connection with the Covid-19 vaccination, I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns. I had deep distrust of the vaccine and was affected by fear and uncertainty.
“In this emotionally charged situation, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of having my unanswered questions clarified through the proper channels.
“Today, I clearly see that this was not the right course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry.
“I take responsibility for this decision, will face the process of clarifying the facts, and will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities.”
Swiss Football Association president Peter Knabel drew a distinction between Xhaka’s case and that of national ice hockey coach Patrick Fischer, who was fired in April after it emerged he had paid for a fake certificate to take part in the 2022 Winter Olympics, later fined around 39,000 Swiss francs.
“Granit didn’t need this vaccination certificate to participate in a major tournament or international matches,” Knabel told Blick, noting that the Swiss Football Association had only issued a vaccination recommendation at the time, not a requirement.
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Prosecutors will now examine whether Xhaka’s actions amounted to an offence under Swiss law, with a conviction potentially carrying a sentence of up to five years, though a fine has been considered sufficient punishment in comparable cases.
The 33-year-old holds Switzerland’s all-time appearance record with 152 caps, and had continued playing internationally for the national team throughout this period.
Photo: Michael Driver/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
