Canadian immigration authorities have denied entry to Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi ahead of his team’s crucial World Cup match against Germany in Canada. According to reports, the decision means Wahi will not be allowed into the country while his case remains under investigation.
The Athletic reported on Thursday, June 18, 2026, that the refusal is tied to an ongoing probe into suspected involvement in illegal betting and match-fixing. Canadian authorities told the Ivory Coast football federation that Wahi would not be permitted to enter Canada as long as the investigation is active. The outlet also said Wahi had been arrested on suspicion of fixing offences less than two weeks earlier.
The move has revived scrutiny over Wahi’s past. French journalist Romain Molina previously reported that Wahi was removed from Caen’s youth academy over serious sexual misconduct allegations. Molina said Wahi allegedly forced three younger academy students to masturbate in front of him, an incident that reportedly led to his immediate suspension and the end of his spell at the French club before he reached the senior level.
Ivory Coast are trying to limit the sporting and reputational damage, but the striker is expected to remain in the United States during his team’s second group match in Canada against Germany. The local federation has not yet issued a full official statement on his future in the tournament.
