Ghana has been dealt a significant setback ahead of its opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after midfielder Thomas Partey was denied entry into Canada, ruling him out of the Black Stars’ clash against Panama in Toronto.
The highly anticipated fixture is scheduled to take place at BMO Field on June 17, but Ghana will now have to begin its World Cup campaign without one of its most experienced players. FIFA confirmed that Partey, who is currently based with the Ghana squad in Boston, United States, will not be able to travel to Canada after his visa application was refused by Canadian authorities.
The decision comes as the 32-year-old footballer awaits trial in the United Kingdom after pleading not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault linked to allegations made by four different women between 2020 and 2022. Partey has denied all charges and has not been convicted of any offence.
In a statement, FIFA clarified that visa and immigration decisions fall solely under the authority of host governments and are outside the jurisdiction of world football’s governing body. The organization emphasized that each host country retains the right to determine who is granted entry based on its immigration laws and regulations.
Canada’s immigration policies allow authorities to assess visitors on an individual basis, particularly in cases involving criminal allegations or legal proceedings. While Canadian officials did not publicly discuss the specifics of Partey’s case, government representatives reiterated that hosting major international events such as the FIFA World Cup does not alter the country’s immigration laws or security standards.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada stated that every traveler seeking entry into the country is evaluated according to applicable laws and the facts available at the time of assessment. Officials also stressed that ensuring the safety and security of Canadians remains a top priority throughout the tournament.
The situation contrasts with Partey’s experience in the United States, where he was granted entry and joined Ghana’s training camp after obtaining a valid visa. US Customs and Border Protection confirmed that, although authorities were aware of the ongoing legal proceedings involving the midfielder, he has not been convicted of a crime and was therefore admitted following standard immigration procedures.
For Ghana, Partey’s absence represents a major blow both on and off the pitch. Widely regarded as one of the team’s key figures, the former Arsenal midfielder brings leadership, experience, and tactical stability to the Black Stars’ midfield. His unavailability will likely force Ghana’s coaching staff to adjust their plans ahead of a crucial opening match.
The development has also sparked discussion about how differing immigration policies among World Cup host nations could impact players, officials, and supporters during the tournament. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup being jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, immigration requirements remain an important aspect of tournament logistics.
As Ghana prepares to face Panama without one of its star players, attention will now turn to how the Black Stars respond to the challenge and whether they can begin their World Cup journey on a positive note despite the unexpected setback.
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