Granit Xhaka, the captain of Sunderland, has admitted to forging a COVID-19 vaccination certificate during the pandemic. This admission has led to his suspension from the Switzerland national team and could result in a prison sentence.
Xhaka confessed to obtaining a fake certificate confirming his COVID-19 vaccination in 2022.
Swiss authorities are currently investigating the matter, which carries the possibility of a hefty fine or imprisonment for up to five years. At the time of the offense, the 33-year-old midfielder was playing for Arsenal.
This morning, Xhaka addressed the situation in an Instagram statement, saying: “There has been a lot of reporting in recent days about an incident from my past. I would like to comment on it personally.” He added, “Regarding the COVID-19 vaccination, I personally experienced significant uncertainty and serious concerns at that time. I deeply distrusted the vaccine and was overwhelmed by fear and doubt.
In that turbulent emotional state, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my questions through the proper channels. Today, I clearly understand that this was the wrong decision. It was a mistake. I regret it.
I take full responsibility for this choice, commit to cooperating fully with the investigation, and am working closely with the relevant authorities.”
Xhaka is set to appear in court next month, facing charges related to the acquisition of a fraudulent COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
A spokesperson for the Lucerne prosecutor’s office stated, “The goal is to determine whether criminal behavior occurred in connection with the possible fraudulent acquisition of a false certificate and/or document forgery.”
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