Xhaka withdraws from Swiss squad over Covid-19 probe
What Happened
Switzerland’s captain Granit Xhaka has withdrawn from the national squad after Swiss prosecutors opened an investigation into a alleged forged Covid‐19 vaccination certificate, according to BBC Sport. The 33‐year‐old midfielder is accused of obtaining the certificate in 2022, when a vaccine passport was required for certain travel abroad, per the same source.
Chronology
The public prosecutor’s office in the city of Lucerne confirmed that it is examining whether any criminal conduct occurred in obtaining a “false or forged” certificate, as reported by BBC Sport. Xhaka’s statement on social media was posted on Monday, in which he explained that he acted “in a troubled state of mind” and that the decision was a mistake, according to the same source. The withdrawal from the squad was announced jointly by the player and the Swiss Football Association, with plans to discuss his future after the current international window, per BBC Sport.
The Reaction
In his personal message, Xhaka said: “In this troubled state of mind I acquired a vaccine certificate, instead of clarifying my unanswered questions in the proper way. Today I see clearly, that this way was not correct. I take responsibility for this decision, will engage with the process of establishing the facts and fully co‐operate with the relevant authorities,” as quoted by BBC Sport.
The Swiss authorities noted that the Covid‐19 measures requiring vaccination certificates were in place until spring 2022, according to BBC Sport. A separate case mentioned by the same source involved a person named Fischer, who was fined 38,000 Swiss francs by a criminal court, illustrating the seriousness with which forged certificates are treated.
Why It Matters
Xhaka is a key figure for both club and country, and his absence could affect Switzerland’s preparations for upcoming matches, as highlighted by BBC Sport. The investigation underscores the legal scrutiny surrounding pandemic‐related documentation in Switzerland, reinforcing that even high‐profile athletes are not exempt from prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Granit Xhaka accused of? He is alleged to have obtained a forged Covid‐19 vaccination certificate in 2022, according to BBC Sport.
When were Covid‐19 vaccination certificates required in Switzerland? The measures were in effect until spring 2022, as reported by BBC Sport.
What has been the official response? The public prosecutor’s office in Lucerne opened an investigation, and Xhaka withdrew from the national squad by mutual decision with the Swiss Football Association, per BBC Sport.
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