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Switzerland captain Xhaka banned from camp over forged vaccine papers

Swiss Football Association has suspended national team captain Granit Xhaka from upcoming international fixtures after he admitted to obtaining a fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate. The midfielder's absence marks a significant blow to Switzerland's squad depth.

LSN Singapore · 21 September 2026

Switzerland captain Xhaka banned from camp over forged vaccine papers

Switzerland's national football team will be without captain Granit Xhaka for its next international camp following his admission of acquiring forged COVID-19 vaccination documentation, the Swiss Football Association announced on Monday. The SFV confirmed the suspension in response to the 28-year-old midfielder's breach of health protocols. Xhaka's sidelining represents a considerable loss for the Alpine nation as it prepares for upcoming competitive fixtures. The Arsenal midfielder has been a cornerstone of Switzerland's setup in recent years, serving as captain and a key midfield player. The association's decision underscores its commitment to upholding health and safety standards within the national team programme. Further disciplinary details regarding Xhaka's conduct were not immediately disclosed by the SFV, though the suspension sends a clear message regarding compliance with official health requirements for international football operations.