Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi has been cleared to enter Canada after initial visa delays raised concerns over his participation in the World Cup. He is now set to join the national squad for their group match against Germany.
Ivory Coast national football team confirmed that all required travel permissions were secured after Canadian authorities requested further review of his legal situation.
Investigation in France linked to spot fixing allegations
Wahi has been linked to an ongoing investigation in France involving allegations of spot fixing and financial wrongdoing in football. Authorities in Marseille previously questioned a professional player from Ligue 1 as part of a wider probe.
French football officials said they had been alerted to unusual betting activity related to a yellow card received by Wahi during a match against Metz in May.
He has not been charged and was released after questioning. The investigation is still ongoing.
Canada delays entry, then approves visa
Canadian immigration officials initially delayed Wahi’s entry while reviewing available information. The decision was later reversed after additional checks were completed.
Officials stated that each application is assessed individually under Canadian immigration law. They also confirmed that temporary permits can be granted in special cases when required conditions are met.
The football federation later confirmed that Wahi had received approval and would travel with the squad.
Match schedule remains unchanged
Wahi is expected to be available for Ivory Coast’s upcoming World Cup fixtures. The team will face Germany in Toronto, followed by their next group match in Philadelphia.
Previous legal developments in France
Reports from Marseille prosecutors indicate that the investigation includes allegations of organized fraud, sports corruption, handling criminal proceeds, and money laundering. Wahi was questioned but later released.
Football authorities in France have not opened disciplinary action yet but may do so depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Similar visa issue involving another player
Another World Cup player also faced entry issues when Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was denied a visa to Canada due to ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. His case remains separate and unrelated to Wahi.
