Conditional fine for Xhaka over forged COVID certificate

The captain of the Swiss national team, Granit Xhaka, has been fined for forging a COVID vaccination certificate during the pandemic. The sanction amounts to 150,000 francs (160,000 euros) according to the EFE agency, and the player explained the situation on his Instagram account, accepting the decision and taking responsibility.

Fine and conditions

Two sources give different figures: the first mentions 150,000 francs (160,000 euros), while the second talks about a conditional fine of 160,500 euros. Both agree that the payment will only be required if Xhaka commits another offense within the next two years; otherwise, the sanction will remain unenforced.

If Xhaka commits another offense within that period, he will have to pay the fine; if not, he will remain exempt. The Lucerne prosecutor's office has suspended the execution of the punishment as long as there is no recurrence, according to the player himself on Instagram.

Sporting repercussions

Following the controversy, the Swiss Federation temporarily removed the captain's armband from Xhaka and left him out of the last four Nations League matches, games that Switzerland won all.

Granit Xhaka accepts 150,000 Swiss franc fine over vaccine certificates

The midfielder, who plays for English Sunderland and wears the captain's armband at that club, has also played for Basel, Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen in previous seasons.

In his own words, Xhaka said: "I accept the decision and take responsibility". He also acknowledged having harbored a "deep distrust of the vaccine" at the time.

It has not yet been clarified under what circumstances he used the false certificate or how long it remained valid.