Elye Wahi, World Cup player accused of fixing offences, allowed into Canada after visa U-turn
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi, under investigation for alleged spot-fixing related to a yellow card incident in Ligue 1, was initially denied entry to Canada for the World Cup match against Germany but was later granted permission to enter for the team's second game.
- Wahi was arrested by French police on May 29 as part of an investigation into organized fraud, sports corruption, and money laundering but has not been charged with any crime to date.
- Canada’s immigration authorities emphasized that entry decisions are made individually, prioritizing safety and security, and may grant Temporary Resident Permits in exceptional cases, as happened with Wahi.
- The Ligue de Football Professionnel confirmed ongoing proceedings related to unusual betting activity involving Wahi, highlighting concerns about spot-fixing in French football.
- Wahi’s case follows a similar incident involving Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, who was denied entry to Canada due to false information on his application amid serious criminal charges.
