Swiss National Team Captain Punished Over Fake COVID-19 Certificate

Granit Xhaka Receives Suspended Sentence Over Fake COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate

Granit Xhaka, captain of the Switzerland national team and Sunderland, has received a two-year suspended sentence for obtaining a fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate.

The 34-year-old footballer announced the news on his social media account.

The experienced midfielder admitted that he had obtained a fake vaccination certificate during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I accept the court’s decision and take responsibility,” Xhaka said.

In addition to the two-year suspended sentence, the court imposed a suspended fine of 150,000 Swiss francs (approximately $180,000). The footballer also stated that he had paid the court costs.

It is worth noting that Xhaka gave a statement as part of an investigation conducted by the Lucerne public prosecutor’s office. Over the past two weeks, he has not featured for Switzerland in four UEFA Nations League matches.