Elye Wahi barred from Canada for World Cup game vs Germany

Elye Wahi and teammate Nicolas Pepe reacted after missing a chance to score in Ivory Coast's 1-0 win over Ecuador in Philadelphia on June 14, 2026, but the striker will miss the upcoming World Cup game against Germany in Toronto because he cannot travel to Canada. The Ivorian federation said administrative authorizations for his entry could not be obtained at this stage. Wahi started in attack for Ivory Coast when it beat Ecuador 1-0 in its opening World Cup match in Philadelphia on Monday. He will remain in the United States pending the team's return, the federation added. The French Ligue 1 reported an unusual amount of bets placed internationally on Wahi receiving a yellow card during Nice's home game against Metz on May 17, a match that ended 0-0. The league passed the betting information to police, gambling authorities and the French Football Federation.

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The Marseille prosecutor's office confirmed that a 23‑year‑old professional player was arrested on May 29 as part of an investigation into organized fraud, sports corruption, receiving stolen goods and money laundering. The player was questioned while in police custody and released without detention. The investigation remains ongoing. Wahi’s representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Ivory Coast Football Federation said it has not been officially notified of any judicial or administrative proceedings concerning Wahi.

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The federation offered its full support to the player and reaffirmed its confidence in him, calling Elye Wahi an important member of the Ivory Coast national team. It emphasized its backing during this delicate period. Wahi joined Nice on loan from German club Eintracht Frankfurt in January, scoring nine goals in 18 games and helping Nice reach the French Cup final. He also scored twice in a 4-1 victory over Saint‑Étienne in the promotion‑relegation playoff that secured Nice's Ligue 1 status.