Granit Xhaka admits to fake vaccination, misses Switzerland training camp

Swiss captain Granit Xhaka will miss the current international training camp after admitting he obtained a fake COVID‑19 vaccination certificate, the Swiss Football Association (SFV) said on Monday. The decision was taken jointly by Xhaka and the SFV leadership as the squad gathered in Belek, Turkey, to prepare for upcoming UEFA Nations League matches.

The revelation comes as Switzerland readies for a busy international window that includes away games against North Macedonia and Scotland, followed by home fixtures versus Slovenia and a return clash with North Macedonia. The SFV has been strict about health protocols since the pandemic, and any breach threatens team cohesion and public trust. Xhaka’s admission, made in a social‑media post, came after weeks of speculation about his vaccination status and the pressure of meeting travel requirements for the tournament.

In his statement, the 33‑year‑old midfielder said he acted “in an agitated emotional state” and bought a certificate instead of following the proper route. He called the act a mistake, expressed regret and pledged full cooperation with the authorities. Xhaka, who plays for Sunderland in the Premier League, is Switzerland’s most‑capped player with 152 appearances since his debut in 2011. SFV president Peter Knaebel praised Xhaka’s willingness to take responsibility but said the team must move forward without him for the sake of calm and focus ahead of the matches.

The SFV said it will review Xhaka’s case after the international window ends. In the meantime, the Swiss squad will continue training without their captain, hoping to maintain momentum for the Nations League fixtures. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges national teams face in enforcing health rules while managing high‑profile players’ conduct.