Canadian officials cleared the Ivory Coast forward after reviewing details of an ongoing spot-fixing probe in France.
Toronto, Canada (Running Africa) — Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi has been cleared to enter Canada and will be available for the Elephants’ crucial FIFA World Cup group-stage match against Germany after immigration authorities reversed an earlier decision that delayed his travel.
The 23-year-old forward, who plays for French club Nice, had faced uncertainty over his participation after Canadian officials sought additional information related to an ongoing legal investigation in France.
French prosecutors are currently investigating allegations of spot-fixing linked to a Ligue 1 match between Nice and Metz in May. Authorities are examining claims that Wahi deliberately received a yellow card during the match after betting regulators detected unusual wagering activity involving him being cautioned.
The Ivorian international was arrested and questioned by French authorities last month before being released without charges. The investigation remains ongoing, and no findings have been announced.
The legal scrutiny prompted Canadian immigration officials to review Wahi’s eligibility to enter the country, raising concerns over whether he would be available for Ivory Coast’s second World Cup fixture.
However, the Ivorian Football Federation confirmed on Thursday that all necessary clearances had been secured and that Wahi had been authorized to travel and join the national team squad in Canada.
The development provides a significant boost for Ivory Coast as they prepare to face Germany in a key Group Stage encounter. Wahi is considered one of the country’s most important attacking options and his availability strengthens the Elephants’ hopes of securing a positive result as they continue their FIFA World Cup campaign.
While the investigation in France continues, football authorities have not imposed any sporting sanctions on the striker, allowing him to remain eligible for both club and international competition.
