Match manipulation: Ivorian footballer Elye Wahi briefly detained in France
Ivorian international player Elye Wahi, on loan from Frankfurt to Nice, was briefly taken into custody in France roughly two weeks before the start of the 2026 World Cup. He is suspected of intentionally triggering a yellow card during a Ligue 1 match.
Match manipulation: Ivorian footballer Elye Wahi briefly detained in France
Ivorian international player Elye Wahi, aged 23 and on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt to OGC Nice, was briefly taken into custody in France approximately two weeks before the start of the 2026 World Cup. The detention is linked to suspicions of match manipulation, according to sports media outlet The Athletic.
The incident in question dates back to 17 May, during the match between Nice and FC Metz in the French championship. During this match, the professional football league union (LFP) detected suspicious betting. Several people are said to have placed bets on Wahi receiving a yellow card. The player did indeed receive a yellow card during the match. Investigators are seeking to determine whether this incident was intentional.
A spokesperson for the Marseille prosecutor's office confirmed the temporary detention of a 23-year-old footballer playing in Ligue 1, without however disclosing his identity. According to the same source, an investigation was opened on suspicion of "fraud in an organised group, organised sports corruption, handling stolen goods and money laundering". Following his questioning in custody, the player was released. At this stage, no formal charges have been brought against him and the investigation continues. The principle of the presumption of innocence applies fully to Wahi.
The matter comes to light just days before Ivory Coast's match against Germany, scheduled for Saturday evening in Toronto as part of the World Cup group stage. Wahi is included in the Ivorian squad and is expected to participate in the match. According to The Athletic, a second player competing in this world tournament is also under investigation for similar suspicions, though his identity has not been revealed.
Source: BILD
Source: BILD