Elye Wahi Granted Entry to Canada for World Cup Match

Elye Wahi, the Ivory Coast striker, has been granted permission to enter Canada for his team's World Cup match against Germany after facing initial entry issues. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada clarified that hosting major sporting events does not change immigration laws. Wahi's entry was previously uncertain due to an ongoing investigation into alleged sports corruption. Despite these challenges, the Ivorian Football Federation remains confident in Wahi's role within the national team as they prepare for their crucial match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2026, 04:23 IST

Elye Wahi's Entry to Canada Approved

Toronto, Canada - Elye Wahi, the striker from Ivory Coast, has received permission to enter Canada for his nation's upcoming World Cup match, following a previous denial, as reported by a leading sports news outlet.

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) clarified that the hosting of significant international sporting events does not alter the country's immigration regulations. This statement comes amid concerns regarding Wahi's entry ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 clash against Germany.

IRCC emphasized, "Canada maintains that hosting major events does not modify immigration laws. Each individual seeking entry is evaluated based on specific circumstances and applicable laws, prioritizing the safety and security of Canadians."

In unique situations, Temporary Resident Permits may be issued to individuals who are otherwise inadmissible or do not fulfill the entry requirements, the agency added.

Previously, the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) announced that Wahi would miss the team's World Cup opener against Germany on June 21 due to pending authorization for his travel to Canada.

This news follows reports of Wahi being linked to an investigation into alleged sports corruption, with French authorities noting unusual betting patterns related to a yellow card he received while playing for Nice in Ligue 1 last month.

Although Wahi has not been named as a suspect, he was taken into custody on May 29 as part of an inquiry into organized fraud, sports corruption, handling stolen goods, and money laundering, according to a spokesperson from the Marseille prosecutor's office.

The FIF expressed their unwavering support for Wahi, stating, "The FIF has not received any official notification regarding legal or administrative actions against him," as reported by a news agency.

They also affirmed that Wahi remains a crucial member of the Ivory Coast national squad. Until the team returns to Philadelphia for their final group stage match against Curacao, he will stay in the United States, where the team's base camp is located in Chester, Pennsylvania. "The player will not be able to accompany the delegation to Canada due to the lack of necessary administrative authorizations for his entry into Canadian territory. Therefore, Elye Wahi will remain in the U.S. until the team's return," FIF stated.

Wahi has previously played for France at the under-21 level and made his senior debut for Ivory Coast in March. The Ivory Coast team kicked off their tournament with a 1-0 victory over Ecuador, while Germany, a four-time champion, enters the match following a 7-1 win against Curacao.