Granit Xhaka Receives Suspended Fine Over Forged COVID-19 Certificate
· Sports · BBC Sport
Sunderland and Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has received a suspended fine of 150,000 Swiss francs (£136,000) for obtaining a forged COVID-19 vaccination certificate. The 34-year-old midfielder obtained the false document in 2022 when it was required for certain travel abroad and venue access in Switzerland. Xhaka accepted the summary judgment, stating that he takes responsibility for his actions, and confirmed he has already paid the court costs. The fine remains suspended for two years provided he commits no further offences. Xhaka is Switzerland's record appearance holder with 152 caps and is expected to return to action when Sunderland host Brighton.
Why it matters
The ruling resolves a high-profile legal investigation involving a national team captain, allowing him to resume his club career with Sunderland without an immediate financial penalty.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.