FIFA clears Ange-Yoan Bonny to switch allegiance from France to Ivory Coast

FIFA has officially approved Ange-Yoan Bonny’s change of football nationality from France to Ivory Coast, clearing the Inter striker to represent the West African nation at the 2026 World Cup.

Bonny had played for France up to Under-21 level, but applied to switch through his Ivorian family roots.

The decision, confirmed after the French Football Federation signed off the move, means Ivory Coast can now call up the 22-year-old when they name their squad for the tournament. Reports in Italy suggest he is expected to be included, handing the Elephants a timely boost in attack as they look to assemble a competitive group for the finals.

Bonny’s move continues a growing pattern of dual-national talents choosing to commit to Ivory Coast at senior level after featuring for France in youth football, with Nice forward Elye Wahi also making the same switch.

For Inter, it is another storyline involving one of their young forwards heading into a major international competition, while for Ivory Coast, it represents both a statement of ambition and an injection of fresh firepower ahead of the World Cup.