Swiss prosecutors have launched an investigation into Granit Xhaka, the captain of the Swiss national football team, over allegations he obtained a forged Covid-19 vaccination certificate. The 33-year-old midfielder, who currently plays for Sunderland, is alleged to have obtained the certificate in 2022, when it was a requirement in Switzerland for some travel abroad. The public prosecutor's office of the city of Lucerne confirmed the investigation is underway to determine whether any criminal behavior took place.
Xhaka has admitted to obtaining the certificate, stating he had "mistrust" towards the vaccine and was "influenced by worries and uncertainty". In a statement on social media, he said he acquired the certificate instead of clarifying his unanswered questions in the proper way. Xhaka acknowledged that his actions were a mistake and took responsibility for his decision. He also expressed his willingness to cooperate with the relevant authorities.
The Swiss office of public health confirmed that while there was never a general legal requirement to obtain or hold a Covid-19 certificate, it was needed for access to various activities, venues, and travel. These measures were in place until spring 2022, after which Covid-19 certificates continued to be issued primarily for travel purposes. Xhaka's actions have sparked controversy, with the Swiss Football Association announcing that he had withdrawn from the Swiss camp for their upcoming Nations League matches.
The Swiss Football Association stated that Xhaka's withdrawal was a joint decision between the player and management. They will discuss Xhaka's future with the team after the international window. Switzerland has away fixtures against North Macedonia and Scotland on September 26 and 29, before facing Slovenia and North Macedonia at home in early October. Xhaka captained Switzerland at the World Cup earlier this year, where they were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Argentina.
Sunderland boss Regis le Bris refused to comment on the allegations following the Black Cats' defeat at Manchester City on Sunday. He stated that it was not his area to speak about the problems or situations, and that his focus was on football. Le Bris did praise Xhaka's abilities on the field, saying "About football, he is really good".
The investigation into Xhaka's actions is ongoing, with the public prosecutor's office working to establish the facts. Xhaka's statement has been seen as a positive step, as he takes responsibility for his actions and cooperates with the authorities. The incident has raised questions about the use of Covid-19 certificates and the responsibilities of public figures.
The controversy surrounding Xhaka's actions has sparked a wider debate about the use of Covid-19 certificates and the responsibilities of public figures. The investigation's outcome is yet to be determined, and Xhaka's future with the Swiss national team remains uncertain. Key points include Xhaka's admission of obtaining a forged Covid-19 certificate, his cooperation with the authorities, and the ongoing investigation into his actions.
Key points
- Xhaka admits to obtaining a forged Covid-19 certificate and takes responsibility for his actions.
- The Swiss Football Association has withdrawn Xhaka from the national team for upcoming matches.
- The investigation into Xhaka's actions is ongoing, with the public prosecutor's office working to establish the facts.
