Sports
“Visa U-Turn Shock”… Ivory Coast Star Elye Wahi Cleared to Enter Canada for World Cup Clash vs Germany After Sudden Reversal
Ivorian federation confirms striker Elye Wahi gets authorization after earlier travel ban confusion amid betting investigation controversy
A dramatic twist has emerged from the FIFA World Cup 2026 camp as Ivory Coast national football team striker Elye Wahi has now been cleared to travel to Canada for his side’s crucial Group-stage clash against Germany national football team.
The decision comes after an earlier announcement from the Ivorian football federation suggested that Wahi would not be allowed to enter Canada due to complications linked to an ongoing investigation into alleged betting-related offenses. The sudden change in decision has now reversed that uncertainty.
On Thursday, the Fédération Ivoirienne de Football confirmed in an official statement that “the necessary authorizations have now been obtained”, clearing the 23-year-old forward to join the national squad for the high-stakes encounter.
ALSO READ : No Team India at FIFA World Cup 2026, But These Players With Indian Roots Will Carry a Piece of the Nation’s Dream
Wahi, who remains under scrutiny over the alleged betting-related matter, had initially faced doubts regarding his participation in the tournament. However, the latest development ensures that he remains available for selection at a critical stage of Ivory Coast’s World Cup campaign.

The timing of the decision is crucial, as Ivory Coast prepares for a tough test against four-time world champions Germany, a match that could significantly impact their progression in the tournament.
While the federation has not provided further details on how the clearance was secured, the reversal has eased immediate concerns within the squad, allowing the team to focus fully on on-field preparations.
As the World Cup 2026 group stage intensifies, Wahi’s availability could prove vital for Ivory Coast’s attacking strength, even as questions around the off-field investigation continue to linger.
