The scandal that has shocked Switzerland - Is Granit Xhaka really risking prison for a lie?

2026-09-21 15:30:20Sport SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

The scandal that has shocked Switzerland - Is Granit Xhaka really risking prison

Granit Xhaka has publicly admitted that he provided a vaccination certificate during the COVID-19 pandemic that did not reflect his actual vaccination. The Switzerland captain made the announcement on Monday in a statement on Instagram, calling his action “a mistake.”

"Over the last few days, a lot has been reported about an issue from my past. I want to speak out personally about this," Xhaka wrote.

The midfielder explained that at that time there were great doubts and concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.

"Regarding the COVID-19 vaccination, at that time I was personally very uncertain and had great concerns. I had a deep distrust of the vaccine and was overcome by fear and uncertainty," the statement continues.

Xhaka admitted that, rather than seeking answers through official channels, he had chosen to provide a vaccination certificate.

"Today I see clearly that this path was not the right one. It was a mistake. I am sorry. I take responsibility for this decision, I will face the full clarification of the matter and I will cooperate fully with the competent authorities," declared the Swiss captain.

Meanwhile, the Lucerne Prosecutor's Office is investigating the case and Xhaka is expected to be questioned in early October.

The consequences have also affected the Swiss national team. The Swiss Football Federation has confirmed that Xhaka will not join the squad and will miss the next four Nations League matches in September and October.

Xhaka risks 5 years in prison, or a fine

According to Swiss media, following Granit Xhaka's public admission that he purchased a COVID-19 vaccination certificate, his case could have criminal, as well as sporting, consequences. What is Xhaka at risk of?

Xhaka faces up to 5 years in prison, according to "Blick", which refers to Swiss criminal law expert André Kuhn, who explained that document forgery (Urkundenfälschung) in Switzerland can be punished with a fine or up to five years in prison. Forging a COVID certificate could fall into this category, depending on what the investigation determines.

According to the same expert, if Xhaka were to be found guilty and has no criminal record, he could face a financial penalty, which could be suspended, as well as a fine of up to 10,000 Swiss francs. This is not a measure imposed on him, but a scenario explained by the expert to "Blick".

Xhaka will not be part of Switzerland's upcoming squad. The federation and the player have decided that he will not join the team for the upcoming Nations League matches, in order for the situation to be addressed outside of the squad.

The expert quoted by "Blick" says that a criminal case does not automatically lead to a suspension or dismissal from the club. However, if the club loses confidence in the player or the matter affects his reputation, the contract could have consequences. "Blick" also mentions the clauses in Premier League contracts for "gross misconduct".

The Lucerne Prosecutor's Office is continuing the investigation. Xhaka is expected to appear for questioning on October 6. So, the maximum legal risk is up to 5 years in prison, but for a person with no criminal record, a conditional financial punishment and a fine is one of the possible scenarios.


Video