Granit Xhaka under investigation over fake Covid certificate
Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka is under investigation by Swiss prosecutors after admitting he obtained a forged Covid-19 vaccination certificate in 2022.
The 33-year-old has been withdrawn from the Switzerland squad for their upcoming Nations League fixtures following the revelations.
Investigation in Lucerne
The public prosecutor’s office in Lucerne confirmed inquiries are under way to determine whether criminal behaviour occurred in obtaining the document.
A spokesperson for the office stated that the goal is to clarify any conduct relevant under criminal law regarding document forgery.
Xhaka released a statement on social media addressing his actions during the pandemic.
At the time, I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns regarding the Covid-19 vaccination. I felt deep distrust of the vaccine and was plagued by fear and uncertainty.
The midfielder was playing for Arsenal at the time the certificate was acquired, before later spells with Bayer Leverkusen and Sunderland.
The player’s apology
Xhaka admitted that his actions during that period were wrong and confirmed he is cooperating with investigators.
Today I clearly see this was not the right course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry. I take responsibility for this decision, am committed to investigating the matter and am co-operating with the relevant authorities.
The Swiss office of public health noted that certificates were required for travel abroad and access to various venues until spring 2022.
Legal experts suggest Xhaka could theoretically face a heavy fine or potential prison sentence if charges are brought, though custodial punishment is viewed as unlikely.
International and club reaction
The Swiss Football Association agreed with their record appearance holder that he would sit out the current international window.
Switzerland president Peter Knabel spoke about the joint decision made regarding the national team camp.
We jointly concluded that it is in the team’s interests to complete the entire camp without him. Our priority now is to calm the situation.
Sunderland manager Regis le Bris declined to discuss the ongoing legal situation following his side’s recent match against Manchester City.
Speaking to reporters after the defeat, Le Bris said his focus remained strictly on the pitch.
It is not my area to speak about those problems or situations. My area is football. About football, he is really good.
What is next
Xhaka will miss upcoming Nations League matches against Scotland, North Macedonia and Slovenia.
The Swiss Football Association confirmed that discussions regarding Xhaka’s long-term international future will take place once the international window concludes.
