Granit Xhaka: Sunderland captain gets suspended fine over Covid-19 certificate
Sunderland and Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has received a suspended fine for obtaining a forged Covid-19 vaccination certificate in 2022. The midfielder has accepted the court's decision and expressed regret for his actions.
Why it matters
The case highlights the legal and social consequences faced by high-profile athletes regarding public health compliance during the pandemic.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Former Arsenal midfielder Xhaka joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen in July 2025
Sunderland and Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka says he has received a suspended fine of 150,000 Swiss francs (£136,000) for obtaining a forged Covid-19 vaccination certificate.
The 34-year-old, who is alleged to have obtained the certificate in 2022 when it was a requirement in Switzerland for some travel abroad, says the fine is suspended for two years provided he does not commit any further offences, and that he has already paid the court costs.
"A few weeks ago, I spoke personally here and said that I would take responsibility for my decision. I stand by that," the midfielder wrote in German on Instagram.
"I was sentenced by summary judgment for obtaining a false certification to a suspended fine of 50 daily rates of CHF 3,000 [£2,726] each.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in