Granit Xhaka Admits to Using Fake Covid Vaccination Certificates

Granit Xhaka has publicly admitted he obtained coronavirus vaccination certificates without ever receiving the jab, triggering a criminal investigation in Switzerland and his immediate removal from the national team’s next training camp.

The Switzerland captain and Sunderland midfielder made the confession in a lengthy Instagram post on Monday, saying he was gripped by fear and mistrust at the height of the pandemic.

“At the time, I was personally very uncertain about the Covid-19 vaccine and had serious reservations,” Xhaka wrote. He described feeling “a deep distrust” and said he was “overcome by fears and uncertainty”.

That anxiety led him down a path he now calls a clear mistake.

“In this state of emotional turmoil, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my unanswered questions through the proper channels,” he admitted.

The admission comes days after police in Lucerne confirmed Xhaka is under criminal investigation on suspicion of obtaining fake coronavirus vaccination certificates. Local media say the documents came from his doctor, who is also being investigated for allegedly issuing the forged certificates.

The 31-year-old did not try to soften his role in the affair.

“Today, I clearly see that this was not the right path to take. It was a mistake. I’m sorry,” he wrote. “I take responsibility for this decision, am committed to addressing the facts of the matter, and will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities.”

Swiss newspaper Blick reported that Xhaka contracted Covid-19 twice, in 2021 and early 2022, despite holding vaccination certificates during that period.

His confession prompted a swift response from the Swiss Football Federation. In a statement, the federation confirmed that Xhaka will not join the upcoming men’s national team training camp, drawing a clear line as the investigation gathers pace and leaving their long-time captain facing a fight to rebuild trust on and off the pitch.