Sunderland and Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has been hit with a suspended CHF150,000 fine for a forged Covid‑19 vaccination certificate.
The 34‑year‑old allegedly obtained the document in 2022, when Swiss law required it for certain overseas trips. He says the penalty hangs for two years if he stays offense‑free, and he’s already covered the court costs.
A few weeks ago he posted on Instagram in German, insisting he would own up to his choice. ‘I stand by that,’ he wrote.
The summary judgment sentenced him to a suspended fine of 50 daily rates of CHF3,000 (£2,726) each.
He accepts the ruling, thanks supporters and, in my view, his candor begins to repair his reputation.
Back in 2022 while at Arsenal, Xhaka announced on 21 September that he mistrusted the vaccine, saying anxiety and uncertainty had swayed him.
Switzerland’s most‑capped player, with 152 appearances, pulled out of the squad for Nations League fixtures against Scotland, North Macedonia and Slovenia after his initial comment.
The health office said there was never a blanket legal mandate for the certificate, but it was required for many venues, activities and travel, barring those without it.
Those restrictions lingered until spring 2022. Afterwards certificates were still issued mainly to satisfy foreign entry rules.
Xhaka led Switzerland at this year’s World Cup, only to see them fall in the quarter‑finals to eventual runners‑up Argentina.
He should be back when Sunderland host Brighton on Saturday at 15:00 BST.
Black Cats manager Régis le Bris declined comment on the fine, but noted Xhaka trained excellently during the break and is in a good footballing spot – the most crucial factor for him. Will his form translate into points for Sunderland?