Granit Xhaka Under Investigation for Alleged Fake COVID-19 Certificate

According to a report by Khaosod Online, Swiss football captain Granit Xhaka is currently being investigated by the Lucerne Public Prosecutor's Office regarding allegations that he obtained a fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate in 2022. If found guilty of the charges, the 33-year-old midfielder, who currently plays for Sunderland, could face up to five years in prison.

The investigation centers on whether the acquisition of the document involved criminal activity. At the time of the alleged incident, Switzerland required such certificates for international travel and access to certain venues and events. Xhaka, who was playing for Arsenal in 2022, issued a statement on social media acknowledging his error. He expressed regret for his decision, stating that he was in a confused state of mind at the time and chose an improper method to resolve his doubts. He has pledged full cooperation with the authorities.

For residents and travelers, this case highlights the ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding pandemic-era documentation. While Switzerland’s mandatory certificate requirements ended in the spring of 2022, the legal repercussions for falsifying such documents remain active. It remains to be confirmed whether the investigation will lead to formal charges or a trial, as the legal process is currently ongoing. The Swiss Football Association has acknowledged the situation, noting Xhaka's status as a record-holding player for the national team.