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Ghana midfielder, Thomas Partey, will miss his team’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Canadian authorities denied his visa application while he awaits trial in London on multiple rape charges.
The decision means the 32-year-old will not be available for Ghana’s Group stage opener against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday, with FIFA confirming the development in an official statement on Friday.
Africanews reports that FIFA said Partey, who is part of Ghana’s squad based in Smithfield, Rhode Island, was unable to travel due to immigration restrictions imposed by the host nation.
“His visa application has been refused by the Canadian government. 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,” FIFA said.
Canada’s immigration authority, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), said each application is assessed individually in line with national law and security considerations.
“Canada is proud to be a host country for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is working to facilitate a successful event while maintaining the safety and security of Canadians. Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws,” the IRCC said.
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The Ghana Football Association did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the decision.
Partey is currently awaiting trial in London on multiple rape charges relating to alleged offences during his time at English club Arsenal between 2020 and 2025.
He has denied the charges and pleaded not guilty. His trial is scheduled for November or later.
Despite the setback, reports indicate that Partey is expected to return to Ghana’s base camp in Rhode Island and could be available for selection in subsequent fixtures, including the June 23 clash against England in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and Ghana’s final group match against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.
The situation has added an off-field distraction for Ghana as the team prepares for its fifth World Cup appearance in the last six editions.
Separately, Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi is also reportedly facing legal proceedings in Paris on similar allegations, though his case remains ongoing.
FIFA reiterated that it has no role in national immigration decisions and said host countries retain full authority over entry clearance for tournament participants.
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