The French football authorities have launched an investigation into potential match-fixing after an unusual betting pattern emerged around a controversial yellow card issued to Ivorian striker Elye Wahi during a recent Ligue 1 clash.
Unusual betting patterns trigger probe
The French Professional Football League (LFP) filed a complaint against unknown individuals in late May following reports from specialized betting monitoring partners about suspicious wagering activity surrounding Wahi’s 36th-minute yellow card during Nice’s 1-0 victory over Metz on May 17.
According to prosecutors in Marseille, a 23-year-old Ligue 1 professional player was taken into custody on May 29 as part of an ongoing investigation into organized sports corruption, fraud, handling stolen goods, and money laundering. The individual was released after questioning, though investigations continue.
Controversial challenge leads to suspension
During the match, Wahi, who is currently representing Côte d’Ivoire at the 2026 World Cup, received a yellow card for a studs-up challenge on Metz defender Salidou Sané. Replays showed the Ivorian international could have been booked earlier for a dangerous tackle from behind on Bouna Sarr at the 32nd minute.
The yellow card resulted in Wahi’s suspension for the first leg of Nice’s relegation playoff against Saint-Étienne, a match the team ultimately won to secure their Ligue 1 status. The LFP has emphasized its commitment to preserving the integrity of French football competitions and vows to take firm action against any violations.