{
  "id": 8928790,
  "title": "Swiss Captain Granit Xhaka Accused of Forging COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/21/swiss-captain-granit-xhaka-accused-of-forging-covid-19-vaccination",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-21T13:13:42.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Colombia One",
    "slug": "colombia-one",
    "url": "https://colombiaone.com/2026/09/21/swiss-captain-granit-xhaka-accused-of-forging-covid-19-vaccination-certificates/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Swiss soccer captain Granit Xhaka has admitted to forging COVID-19 vaccination certificates, according to reports. The 33-year-old player, who led the Swiss national team during the 2026 World Cup, made the admission on his Instagram account. Xhaka explained that he obtained a vaccination certificate without undergoing the vaccination due to his strong doubts and concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine. He acknowledged feeling deep distrust during the pandemic and regretted his decision, stating that it was not the right way to address his concerns. The case has sparked repercussions for Xhaka, with his career spanning stints at major European clubs and a prominent role on the national team. The controversy centers on the use of fraudulent certificates during the pandemic, when such documents were required in various settings. Swiss captain Granit Xhaka has been accused of forging COVID-19 vaccination certificates, according to the Swiss national football association.",
  "summary": "Granit Xhaka, captain of the Swiss national team, admitted to falsifying COVID-19 vaccination certificates, a case that has sparked repercussions for the soccer player. The midfielder, who led the Swiss national team at the 2026 World Cup, where it eliminated Colombia in the Round of 16, admitted his involvement in the events, which could have […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}