Granit Xhaka under investigation over alleged fake Covid-19 vaccination certificate
Granit Xhaka is facing a criminal investigation in Switzerland over an alleged false Covid-19 vaccination certificate, although he maintains that he was properly vaccinated.
Former Arsenal midfielder and Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka is facing an investigation by prosecutors in Lucerne over allegations surrounding a Covid-19 vaccination certificate.
Swiss authorities confirmed that proceedings have been opened to determine whether any criminally relevant conduct occurred in connection with the certificate.
The case centres on documentation reportedly issued by a doctor in Lucerne whose medical practice was searched by police in 2023. Investigators are examining whether the vaccination recorded on Xhaka’s certificate actually took place.
Granit Xhaka denies allegations
Xhaka has denied any wrongdoing and maintains that he received the vaccinations recorded in his medical documents.
His spokesperson, Andreas Bantel, said the midfielder has confirmation from his doctor that he received Covid-19 vaccinations on January 25 and November 11, 2022.
Xhaka has also indicated that he is prepared to cooperate fully with the authorities as the investigation continues.
The doctor involved has likewise rejected the allegations through her lawyer, who maintains that she personally vaccinated the footballer.
October questioning planned
The 33-year-old is expected to appear before the Lucerne Public Prosecutor’s Office in early October to answer questions about the certificate.
Authorities are seeking to establish whether there was fraudulent procurement of a false certification or document forgery. No finding of guilt has been made against Xhaka, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Presumption of innocence remains
The development comes as Xhaka continues his football career with Sunderland and remains captain of Switzerland.
The Swiss Football Association has said it does not currently have sufficient reliable information to comment on the case.
Both Xhaka and the doctor remain presumed innocent while prosecutors establish the facts and determine whether further legal action is warranted.
