Though the 0-0 draw between Nice and Metz on 17 May was unremarkable, it now finds itself at the center of a growing controversy. The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has flagged unusual betting activity surrounding a key moment in that game—Elye Wahi’s yellow card.

Wahi was shown the yellow card in a challenge against Metz’s Sadibou Sané, an incident that, while clear-cut, has raised eyebrows due to the timing and volume of bets placed internationally on that specific outcome. The card meant Wahi would miss the first leg of Nice’s relegation playoff against AS Saint-Étienne, adding further intrigue to an already tense fixture.

The LFP acted swiftly, forwarding its findings to the Central Service for Racing and Gambling of the national police, the National Gaming Authority, and the French Football Federation. A formal complaint was filed on 29 May, alleging possible involvement in sporting corruption and organized fraud.

The authorities have not disclosed further details, and the LFP has stated it will refrain from public comment until investigations conclude. However, it retains the right to take disciplinary action should new evidence emerge.

Reports suggest a 23-year-old Ligue 1 player was questioned by Marseille prosecutors in connection with the case. While no official identification has been made, speculation points to Wahi as the individual in question. He was released after questioning, with investigations ongoing.

The circumstances echo a similar case in England’s Premier League, where West Ham’s Lucas Paquetá received a yellow card under questionable circumstances during a match against Aston Villa. After review, Paquetá received only a formal warning from his federation—highlighting how such incidents are typically handled.

Official statement from the LFP:

Following the 17 May match between Nice and Metz, the LFP received alerts from its specialized partners monitoring sports betting markets regarding irregular betting patterns linked to a yellow card received by Elye Wahi.

In line with its commitment to protecting the integrity of competitions, the LFP immediately shared these findings with law enforcement, the National Gaming Authority, and the French Football Federation.

A complaint was filed on 29 May for potential involvement in sporting corruption and organized fraud.

At this stage, due to ongoing investigations and confidentiality requirements, the LFP will refrain from further public comment and has not initiated disciplinary proceedings. However, it reserves the right to take action as the case develops.

The LFP reaffirms its dedication to upholding fair play and will take decisive action against any conduct that threatens the integrity of its competitions.