Granit Xhaka accepts 150,000 Swiss franc fine over vaccine certificates
The 34‑year‑old Swiss national captain Granit Xhaka confirmed on Thursday on Instagram that the prosecutor's office sentenced him to a fine of 50 daily rates of 3,000 Swiss francs – a total of 150,000 francs. The penalty is suspended on probation for two years, provided he commits no further offenses during that time.
Background of the Conviction
Xhaka was convicted of “obtaining a false certification” after admitting that he had purchased two vaccination certificates during the COVID‑19 pandemic. In an Instagram story he explained that the procedural costs have already been settled and that he had fully testified to the prosecutor's office.
The former Bundesliga professional, who previously played for Borussia Mönchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen, is currently a midfielder at the English Premier League club AFC Sunderland.
Reactions from Xhaka and the Swiss Football Association
In his Instagram statement Xhaka wrote: “I accept the decision and take responsibility.” He added that the penalty will not be enforced as long as he does not commit any wrongdoing during the two‑year probation period.
The Swiss Football Association (SFV) announced that it has taken note of the verdict and will now hold talks about further cooperation. Whether sporting consequences will follow remains unclear.
Due to the ongoing proceedings, Xhaka and the SFV jointly waived the captain's participation in the most recent national team training camp.