The Ivorian Football Federation has confirmed that striker Elye Wahi will not travel to Canada with the national team. Officials said the player failed to obtain the documents required for entry into the country.
FIF issued the update on Thursday, June 18, ahead of Ivory Coast’s upcoming FIFA World Cup fixture. The federation said Wahi will remain in the United States while the team continues its preparations.
According to FIF, administrative authorizations needed for Wahi’s entry into Canada remain unavailable. The federation therefore excluded him from the traveling delegation.
Officials did not indicate when the documents could be processed. The striker will wait in the United States until the national team returns.
Federation Addresses Arrest Claims
FIF also responded to reports claiming that Wahi had been arrested. The federation said it had not received any official communication confirming legal or administrative action against the player.
Officials urged the public to treat the circulating reports with caution. The federation reaffirmed its confidence in the forward and described him as an important member of the national team.
The development comes days after Ghana protested Canada’s decision to deny midfielder Thomas Partey a temporary residence visa. Ghanaian authorities described the decision as unfair and launched diplomatic efforts to challenge it.
Officials argued that Canadian authorities relied on unresolved legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. Ghana maintained that no court has found Partey guilty of any offence.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
The Ghanaian government has formally protested the visa decision through diplomatic channels. Officials requested a review and said they would pursue legal and administrative remedies if necessary.
Ghana stressed that the principle of innocence until proven guilty must remain central in such decisions. Authorities continue engaging Canadian officials as they seek a resolution before the tournament progresses.
About The Author
