# Swiss football players COVID certificate investigation

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/swiss-football-players-covid-certificate-investigation
> Updated: 2026-11-05T16:35:38.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo were cleared by the Swiss Football Association (SFV) to return to the Swiss national team in November following an investigation into their use of forged COVID-19 vaccination and test certificates during the pandemic.

Both players had been sidelined for several Nations League matches. Xhaka, the team captain, admitted to acquiring a fake certificate in 2022 to facilitate travel. Both players received suspended fines of 150,000 Swiss francs. National team director Pierluigi Tami stated that the SFV considered the conclusion of legal proceedings and the sporting consequences already endured, concluding that their return is “responsible and the right thing to do.”

Coach Murat Yakin confirmed that Xhaka will retain his role as captain. The players were expected to be available for upcoming Nations League fixtures against Slovenia and Scotland.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-05: Albania and Switzerland prepare for Nations League fixtures

Albania prepares for crucial Nations League matches against Finland and Belarus, while Switzerland welcomes back Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo for upcoming fixtures.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/albania-and-switzerland-prepare-for-nations-league-fixtures

### 2026-10-27: Switzerland football players Xhaka and Embolo cleared for national team return

Switzerland's Granit Xhaka and Breel Embolo will return to the national team in November after being suspended for using forged COVID-19 certificates. Xhaka will remain captain.

31 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/swiss-footballers-xhaka-and-embolo-cleared-to-return-to-national-team

---
Cite as: Swiss football players COVID certificate investigation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/swiss-football-players-covid-certificate-investigation