Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into Canada.
The 32-year-old, who currently plays for Villarreal, was part of Ghana’s squad for the tournament and had joined his teammates in the United States for preparations.
However, he will not be available for Ghana’s Group L opener against Panama at Toronto’s BMO Field on June 17 due to a rejected visa application by Canadian authorities.
FIFA has confirmed that Partey cannot travel from Ghana’s training base in the United States to Canada for the match.
”FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana’s team base camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government,” FIFA stated.
The governing body emphasized that immigration decisions are the responsibility of the host nations.
”FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.”
While Partey will miss the clash against Panama, he remains eligible to participate in Ghana’s subsequent group-stage matches against England in Boston on June 23 and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27, both scheduled to take place in the United States.
The former Arsenal player is currently facing legal issues in the United Kingdom, having been charged with multiple counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by London’s Metropolitan Police.
He has pleaded not guilty to all allegations, with his trial set to occur at Southwark Crown Court in London.
Canada’s immigration regulations permit authorities to deny entry to individuals under specific conditions.
The Canadian government indicates that those who have committed or been convicted of crimes may be considered inadmissible, although Partey has not been convicted and is awaiting trial.
Before the tournament, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) informed The Athletic that all visa applications are evaluated under Canadian immigration laws, emphasizing public safety as a top priority.
Immigration officers assess an individual’s admissibility based on legal standards and may refuse entry if they perceive a potential security risk.
Partey’s absence is a notable blow for Ghana, as the seasoned midfielder was expected to play a crucial role in the team’s World Cup journey.
The Black Stars arrived in the United States earlier this month and have been training in Rhode Island in preparation for the tournament.
During the 2025-26 season, Partey made 32 appearances for Villarreal after departing Arsenal and continues to be one of Ghana’s most significant players on the international stage.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong