Granit Xhaka Convicted for Fake COVID Vaccination Certificate, Avoids Jail Time
The Swiss international confessed to obtaining a false certificate due to 'deep distrust' of the vaccine, receiving a suspended fine.
Swiss footballer Granit Xhaka has been convicted for obtaining a false COVID-19 vaccination certificate but will not serve jail time. Swiss authorities investigated the case after Xhaka admitted to having a "deep distrust" of the vaccine and not using "proper channels" to acquire the document in 2022, while he was playing for Arsenal. He was issued a conditional fine of 50 daily rates of 3,000 Swiss francs each, totaling 150,000 Swiss francs (approximately £136,265), with a two-year probation period.
Xhaka accepted the summary penalty order for obtaining a false certification, stating that he takes responsibility for his decision. "The penalty will not be enforced if I do not commit any offenses during this time," he said on Instagram. "I have already paid the procedural costs. I accept the decision and take responsibility."
The validity of the certificate, reportedly dated November 11, 2022, came under scrutiny. Records indicate that Dr. Andrea Ludwig signed two vaccine certificates for Xhaka: one on January 25, 2022, and another on November 11, 2022. The first certificate was issued shortly before Arsenal's training camp in the United Arab Emirates, and the second was dated three days before Xhaka traveled to the Qatar World Cup.
According to reports, Xhaka posted a team photo on Instagram on the date of his second vaccination certificate, showing him training with Arsenal in London. The day after the disputed certificate's date, November 12, 2022, Xhaka started in Arsenal's match against Wolves but was substituted after 16 minutes due to a gastrointestinal infection.
While vaccine mandates were not in effect for Premier League players to play matches, vaccination status could reduce quarantine periods after close contact or travel. Xhaka stated in September that he had "serious concerns" and "deep distrust" regarding the vaccine at the time, leading to his decision to obtain the certificate instead of addressing his questions through official channels. "Today I clearly see that this was not the right course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry," he added.
Dr. Ludwig faced scrutiny during the pandemic for her medical practices, including the use of the cancer drug opaganib for COVID-19 patients under compassionate use, despite a lack of proven efficacy in controlled studies. Xhaka did not participate in Switzerland's recent international camp due to the ongoing investigation.
