Ghana’s Partey denied Canadian entry, will miss World Cup opener
The midfielder returns to the team’s US-based training camp and remains eligible for subsequent group stage matches against England and Croatia.
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has been denied entry into Canada and will miss his team’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama. The visa refusal comes as Partey awaits trial in the United Kingdom on multiple charges of rape, allegations dating to his tenure with Arsenal between 2020 and 2025.
FIFA confirmed the decision in a statement on Friday, clarifying that the governing body is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries. The organisation reiterated that, consistent with previous tournaments, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that Partey was assessed individually based on the facts available and applicable law. In a separate statement, the agency emphasised that hosting major events does not alter Canadian immigration laws, noting that the government remains committed to maintaining the safety and security of Canadians while facilitating the tournament.
Partey, who currently plays for Villarreal in Spain, has pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is scheduled to stand trial in London in November or later. Following the visa denial, the 32-year-old returned to Ghana’s base camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island.
Despite missing the opener in Toronto, Partey remains eligible to play in Ghana’s subsequent group stage matches. The team is scheduled to face England in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on June 23, and conclude their group play against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.
