The French football league is probing potential match manipulation after unusual betting patterns emerged during a recent Ligue 1 encounter featuring Côte d’Ivoire international Elye Wahi.
Investigative proceedings launched over suspicious betting activity
French authorities confirmed that a 23-year-old Ligue 1 player was questioned on May 29 in connection with an ongoing investigation into organized sports corruption and fraud. The player, who remains unnamed, was released after questioning while detectives continue their work.
The probe stems from a complaint filed by the French Professional Football League (LFP) following alerts from specialized betting monitoring partners. These partners flagged irregular betting activity surrounding a yellow card issued to Wahi during Nice’s May 17 match against Metz.
Match officials question referee’s decision timing
During the 34th matchday fixture, referee Clément Turpin issued Wahi’s yellow card at the 36-minute mark for a studs-up challenge on Metz defender Salidou Sané. Notably, the Ivorian forward had already escaped punishment minutes earlier when referee Turpin chose not to penalize a dangerous tackle from behind against Bouna Sarr.
The timing of Wahi’s yellow card became particularly significant when it resulted in his suspension for Nice’s subsequent Ligue 1/Ligue 2 playoff first leg against Saint-Étienne – a match that proved crucial to the Côte d’Azur club’s top-flight survival.
French football authorities vow decisive action
In a strongly worded statement, the LFP emphasized that safeguarding competition integrity remains its highest priority. The governing body reiterated its commitment to taking firm action against any actions that might compromise the integrity of French football competitions.
