Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi has been cleared to enter Canada ahead of his country’s FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match against Germany after initially being denied entry due to ongoing legal scrutiny linked to a spot-fixing investigation in France. The development comes amid growing attention on the 23-year-old forward, whose arrest last month sparked controversy during the tournament.

Wahi featured for 55 minutes in Ivory Coast’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador earlier this week in Philadelphia. However, preparations for the team’s second group match against four-time world champions Germany were overshadowed by uncertainty over his travel status. Reports indicated that Canadian authorities initially denied him entry, raising doubts about his availability for the crucial fixture scheduled to be played in Toronto.

The striker was arrested in France in May on suspicion of deliberately receiving a yellow card while playing for Nice in Ligue 1. Investigators are examining allegations of potential spot-fixing related to betting activity. Although Wahi was released shortly after his arrest and no charges were formally filed against him, French authorities have continued their investigation, leaving his legal status unresolved.

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News of the investigation became widely known after Ivory Coast’s victory over Ecuador, drawing significant international attention and placing the player under intense media scrutiny. The case has generated debate among football observers, particularly because spot-fixing allegations can carry serious sporting and legal consequences if proven. However, authorities have not publicly disclosed evidence supporting the allegations, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Despite the initial setback, efforts were reportedly made to address the issue with the relevant authorities. Following further review of the circumstances, Wahi was eventually granted permission to enter Canada and travel to Toronto with the rest of the Ivory Coast squad. The decision means he remains available for selection as his team prepares to face one of the tournament’s strongest contenders.

For Ivory Coast, Wahi’s availability provides an important boost ahead of a challenging encounter against Germany. While the investigation in France continues to cast a shadow over the striker’s World Cup campaign, the immediate focus will shift back to football as the African side looks to build on its opening victory and strengthen its chances of progressing to the knockout stages. The outcome of the ongoing probe, meanwhile, is likely to remain a subject of close attention beyond the tournament.

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