Xhaka's fake vaccine certificate sparks Swiss probe and public backlash
Swedish-born Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka, captain of Sunderland, has publicly admitted obtaining a falsified Covid-19 vaccination certificate after a criminal investigation was opened by the Lucerne public prosecutor’s office in Switzerland. The 33‑year‑old’s admission comes as authorities probe the alleged forgery.
Swiss probe into alleged certificate fraud
Investigators allege the certificate was supplied by a Swiss doctor whose practice was searched by police in 2023. They claim the doctor forged documents for several clients rather than administering the vaccine. The Lucerne office is examining whether criminal law has been breached in connection with the false certification.
The case centres on Xhaka’s claim that he obtained the document during a period of intense personal doubt about the vaccine. Police records show the doctor in question was linked to multiple forged certificates, prompting a broader inquiry into her medical practice.
Xhaka apologises and pledges cooperation
In an Instagram post, Xhaka wrote: “I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns at the time. In this turbulent emotional state, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my open questions through the proper channels. Today I clearly see that this was the wrong approach. It was a mistake. I am sorry and I am fully cooperating with the relevant authorities.”
Simon Kopp, spokesperson for the Lucerne Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office, confirmed the investigation, stating, “The aim is to clarify whether there has been conduct relevant under criminal law in connection with the possible fraudulent obtaining of a false certification and/or document forgery.” The story was first detailed by Sport Felix Keith, senior sports reporter, on 21 Sep 2026, with view and images accompanying the release.
Andreas Bantel, spokesperson for Xhaka’s former club Arsenal, said the midfielder had indeed been vaccinated. “He has confirmation from his doctor that he was vaccinated against Covid‑19 for the first time on 25 January 2022 and for the second time on 11 November 2022,” Bantel added. A lawyer for the doctor also confirmed she administered the vaccine to Xhaka.
Xhaka is Switzerland’s most‑capped player with 152 appearances. He spent seven years at Arsenal during the Covid‑19 pandemic, moved to Bayer Leverkusen in 2023, won the Bundesliga under Xabi Alonso and joined Sunderland in July 2025. He has made 42 appearances for the Black Cats, most recently featuring in their 5‑3 Premier League loss to Manchester City on Sunday.
Having accepted responsibility, Xhaka remains committed to cooperating with the Lucerne authorities, while the investigation continues to determine any criminal liability.