Swiss prosecutors have launched an investigation into Granit Xhaka, the captain of the Swiss national football team, over allegations that he obtained a forged COVID-19 vaccination certificate. The 33-year-old midfielder, currently playing for Sunderland, is alleged to have obtained the certificate in 2022, when it was required in Switzerland for some travel abroad. Authorities confirmed that the public prosecutor's office in Lucerne is conducting the investigation.
Xhaka has acknowledged that he obtained a vaccine certificate instead of clarifying his concerns about the vaccine. In a social media statement, he said he had "mistrust" towards the vaccine and was "influenced by worries and uncertainty." He admitted that acquiring the certificate was a mistake and took responsibility for his decision. Xhaka also stated that he would cooperate fully with the relevant authorities during the investigation.
The Swiss office of public health confirmed that while there was no general legal requirement to obtain or hold a COVID-19 certificate, it was necessary for access to various activities, venues, and travel. The measures in Switzerland were in place until spring 2022, after which COVID-19 certificates continued to be issued primarily for travel purposes. This requirement may have influenced Xhaka's decision to obtain the certificate.
The Swiss Football Association announced that Xhaka had withdrawn from the Swiss camp for upcoming Nations League matches against Scotland, North Macedonia, and Slovenia. The decision to withdraw was made jointly by Xhaka and the team 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.
Sunderland boss Regis le Bris refused to comment on the allegations following the team's defeat at Manchester City on Sunday. He stated that it was not his area to discuss the issue and that his focus was on football. Le Bris praised Xhaka's performance, saying he is "really good" on the field. Xhaka captained Switzerland at the World Cup earlier this year.
The investigation into Xhaka's alleged forged COVID-19 certificate may have implications for his future with the Swiss national team. The team's management will discuss his future after the international window. Xhaka has been Switzerland's record appearance holder with 152 caps. His participation in upcoming matches will depend on the outcome of the investigation.
Xhaka's case highlights the challenges of verifying COVID-19 certificates during the pandemic. The issue has raised questions about the integrity of vaccination records and the consequences of falsifying them. The investigation will determine whether Xhaka engaged in any criminal behavior in obtaining the certificate.
Key points
- Xhaka allegedly obtained a forged COVID-19 vaccination certificate in 2022.
- The Swiss Football Association has withdrawn Xhaka from upcoming Nations League matches.
- Xhaka has taken responsibility for his actions and will cooperate with the investigation.
