Elye Wahi has been denied entry to Canada and will miss Ivory Coast’s upcoming World Cup group-stage match against Germany.
The 23-year-old forward, who started Ivory Coast’s opening victory over Ecuador, remains in the United States after failing to secure the necessary authorisation to enter Canadian territory amid an ongoing investigation in France.
Investigation centres on alleged spot-fixing
Wahi was reportedly arrested in France last month as part of an investigation into alleged spot-fixing in Ligue 1.
The Nice striker is accused of deliberately receiving a yellow card during a league match against Metz in May. Spot-fixing involves intentionally influencing specific incidents during a game to benefit betting markets.
A statement from the Marseille public prosecutor’s office confirmed that a 23-year-old Ligue 1 footballer had been arrested in connection with an investigation involving organised fraud, organised sports corruption, handling proceeds of crime and money laundering.
Authorities did not officially name Wahi, but French football officials later confirmed that betting activity involving the player had attracted attention.
Ivory Coast federation backs the player
The Ivorian Football Federation stated that it had not received any official notification regarding judicial or administrative proceedings involving Wahi.
In a statement, the federation expressed its support for the player and reaffirmed its confidence in him despite the ongoing controversy.
The federation also confirmed that Wahi would remain in the United States while the team travels to Canada for Saturday’s match against Germany national football team.
World Cup setback for Ivory Coast
Wahi’s absence represents a significant blow for Ivory Coast ahead of one of their toughest group fixtures.
The striker featured in the opening win over Ecuador and has become an important attacking option for the African side.
Following the Germany encounter in Toronto, Ivory Coast will return to the United States for their final group match against Curacao in Philadelphia next week.
No disciplinary action yet from French football authorities
The Ligue de Football Professionnel confirmed that it had been alerted to an unusually high volume of bets linked to a booking received by Wahi.
However, the organisation stated that no disciplinary proceedings have been launched at this stage because investigations remain ongoing.
French football authorities added that they reserve the right to take action in the future depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
Second World Cup player denied entry to Canada
Wahi is the second player at the 2026 World Cup to encounter immigration problems involving Canada.
Earlier in the tournament, Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was refused entry because of ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom and subsequently missed Ghana’s opening match.
For now, Wahi’s future involvement in the World Cup remains uncertain as investigations continue and Canadian entry authorisation has yet to be granted.
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