Switzerland and Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has been given a suspended fine of 150,000 Swiss francs, equivalent to about $180,000, after admitting that he obtained a fraudulent COVID-19 vaccination certificate during the pandemic.
The 34-year-old midfielder said the penalty consists of 50 daily fines of 3,000 francs each. However, the amount will only be enforced if he commits another offense during a two-year probation period.
Xhaka said on Instagram that he accepted the ruling and took full responsibility for his actions.
The footballer acknowledged last month that he obtained the fake certificate in 2022 because he was skeptical about COVID-19 vaccines. He described the decision as a mistake.
Swiss prosecutors in the canton of Lucerne investigated the case and took a statement from Xhaka as part of the proceedings.
With 152 international appearances, Xhaka is Switzerland’s most-capped male player. He recently missed four UEFA Nations League matches after agreeing with the Swiss Football Association to remain out of the national team during the international window.
The Swiss Football Association said it would hold further talks with Xhaka now that the legal proceedings have concluded.
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