Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka has admitted obtaining a Covid-19 vaccination certificate without receiving the vaccine, with the Swiss international now facing a criminal investigation.
The 33-year-old has apologised for his decision during the pandemic and confirmed that he will cooperate with authorities investigating how the certificate was obtained.
Xhaka has also withdrawn from Switzerland’s upcoming Nations League fixtures following discussions with the Swiss Football Association (SFV)
Xhaka accepts responsibility
The controversy is linked to an investigation involving a doctor in Lucerne who is suspected of issuing vaccination certificates without administering the corresponding vaccines. The doctor has denied the allegations.
In a statement published on Instagram, Xhaka acknowledged that he obtained a vaccination certificate while harbouring doubts about the Covid-19 vaccine.
At the time, in connection with the Covid-19 vaccination, I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns,” Xhaka said.
“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.”
He added that he accepts responsibility and will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities as they establish the facts.
The Lucerne Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office said its investigation is examining whether criminal conduct occurred in connection with the possible fraudulent acquisition of false certification or document forgery.
Xhaka could face serious penalty
Swiss authorities reportedly raided the doctor’s clinic in 2023 and seized evidence during an investigation involving several people suspected of obtaining coronavirus certificates without receiving vaccinations.
Reports in Switzerland claim Xhaka is expected to appear before prosecutors next month to provide his statement.
Document forgery in Switzerland can carry significant financial penalties and, in certain circumstances, imprisonment of up to five years. The final outcome will depend on the findings of the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.
Xhaka was an Arsenal player when the alleged offence occurred. He later joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2023 before moving to Sunderland in 2025.
Sunderland have declined to comment on the matter.
Meanwhile, SFV president Peter Knabel confirmed that Xhaka informed the association about the situation before deciding to stay away from the current international camp.
The midfielder will therefore miss Switzerland’s Nations League meetings with North Macedonia and Scotland, as well as their subsequent fixtures against Slovenia and North Macedonia.