/ Jun 19, 2026
/ Jun 19, 2026

World Cup: Cote d’Ivoire striker Elye Wahi denied Canada visa amid match-fixing probe

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A Cote d’Ivoire striker, Elye Wahi, has been refused a visa to enter Canada ahead of his country’s World Cup fixture against Germany in Toronto.

 

The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) confirmed that Wahi will not travel with the squad for the second group-stage match, though it did not give an official reason for the decision.

Wahi is currently under investigation in France over alleged spot-fixing linked to a Ligue 1 match involving Nice and Metz in May. French authorities are examining claims that he deliberately picked up a yellow card, an incident suspected to have been exploited in betting markets.

The French Professional Football League (LFP) has filed a formal complaint with police, citing possible sporting fraud and organised corruption after unusual betting activity was flagged around the incident.

Wahi, born in France to Ivorian parents, switched international allegiance to Côte d’Ivoire in March. He featured in his country’s opening World Cup win over Ecuador.

He becomes the second player at the tournament to face entry complications into Canada, following Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, who previously encountered visa issues linked to legal proceedings in the United States.

The development adds fresh scrutiny to the intersection of ongoing legal cases and international football participation during the 2026 World Cup.

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