“I made a mistake and I am sorry!” – Granit Xhaka on the investigation, the Swiss captain reacts: “I had no trust in the vaccine”

Granit Xhaka has reacted publicly after reports that he is under investigation in Switzerland over a suspected fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate obtained during the pandemic.

The Sunderland midfielder and Switzerland captain admitted he had obtained a vaccination certificate at a time when he had strong doubts and concerns about the vaccine. In a statement published on social media, Xhaka said he now considers that decision wrong.

“I want to address this matter personally. At that time, regarding COVID-19 vaccination, I was very uncertain and had serious concerns. I had a deep distrust of the vaccine and was affected by fear and uncertainty,” Xhaka said.

He admitted that, instead of seeking answers to his concerns through official channels, he had obtained a vaccination certificate.

“In this emotionally charged situation, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my unresolved questions through the proper channels.

Today I see clearly that this was not the right thing to do. It was a mistake. I am sorry.

I take responsibility for my decision, I will face the process of clarifying the facts, and I will fully cooperate with the relevant authorities,” said the Switzerland captain.

The case is linked to an investigation by the Lucerne Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office into suspicions that a female doctor had issued vaccination certificates without administering the corresponding vaccinations. The doctor has denied the accusations.

Swiss authorities have confirmed they are investigating whether there were criminal acts in this case, including fraudulently obtaining a false certificate or forging documents.

According to reports, Xhaka is expected to appear before the prosecution next month to give his testimony.

In Switzerland, document forgery can be punished with a considerable fine or imprisonment of up to five years. However, any specific criminal liability of Xhaka will be determined by the authorities and the relevant process.

After the publication of his statement, Xhaka will not be part of Switzerland’s next national team call-up.

The Swiss Football Federation announced that the decision was made jointly with the player, assessing that at this time it was more appropriate for him not to be part of the team.

The federation’s president, Peter Knäbel, said Xhaka had informed the leadership about the situation and had decided to take public responsibility.

“We welcome the fact that Granit has taken this step and is ready to face the consequences. At the same time, we have reached the joint conclusion that it is in the team’s interest for this call-up to proceed without him,” said Knäbel.

After this month’s matches are over, the federation and Xhaka are expected to reassess the situation and discuss further steps.

Xhaka was part of Arsenal at the time the certificate is suspected to have been obtained. He left the London club in 2023 to join Bayer Leverkusen, while in 2025 he returned to English football with Sunderland.