Elye Wahi Misses FIFA World Cup Opener Due to Travel Authorization Issues

Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi will miss the FIFA World Cup opener against Germany due to unresolved travel authorization issues. This announcement follows his connection to an investigation into alleged sports corruption, although he has not been named as a suspect. The Ivorian Football Federation has expressed confidence in Wahi, emphasizing his importance to the national team. He will remain in the United States until the team returns for their next match against Curacao. Discover more about Wahi's situation and the implications for the Ivory Coast team in the full article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 23:54 IST

Elye Wahi's Absence from FIFA World Cup Opener

Toronto, Canada - June 18: Elye Wahi, the striker from Ivory Coast, will not be able to join his team for their FIFA World Cup match against Germany on June 21 due to pending travel authorization, as confirmed by the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) on Thursday.

This news follows recent reports linking Wahi to an investigation into alleged sports corruption. French authorities have noted unusual betting activities 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 has not made any public comments regarding the situation. A representative from the Marseille prosecutor's office revealed that he was detained on May 29 as part of an inquiry into organized fraud, sports corruption, handling stolen goods, and money laundering.

The FIF has expressed its unwavering support for Wahi, stating, “The FIF has not received any official notification regarding legal or administrative actions against him,” according to reports.

Wahi is considered a vital member of the Ivory Coast national squad. He will remain in the United States, where the team's base camp is located in Chester, Pennsylvania, until they return to Philadelphia for their final group stage match against Curacao.

“The player will not be able to accompany the delegation to Canada due to the lack of necessary administrative authorizations for his entry into the country. Therefore, Elye Wahi will stay in the United States 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 Curacao will enter their match following a heavy 1-7 defeat to Germany, the four-time champions.