CANADA— Ghana will have to make do without star player Thomas Partey in the first group match of the 2026 World Cup against Panama. Canadian authorities have rejected the 32-year-old midfielder’s visa application, meaning he cannot travel to Toronto for the June 17 match.
The Ghanaians are currently in a training camp in Boston, but Partey is not allowed to enter Canada. According to a statement from FIFA, the decision was made by the Canadian government, which is responsible for admitting foreign visitors to the tournament.
“The midfielder remains free pending his trial”
“FIFA can confirm that Thomas Partey will not be able to travel to Canada for Ghana’s first group match against Panama after his visa application was rejected by the Canadian government,” the world football governing body said. FIFA emphasized that it has no influence on the immigration procedures of the host countries of the World Cup.
Canada’s Immigration Department stated that hosting a major international sporting event does not entail any exceptions to immigration law. “Each person seeking to enter Canada will be assessed individually based on the available facts and applicable law,” the response said.
The rejection is probably related to the legal problems Partey is facing in England. The former Arsenal player has been charged with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual abuse. He denies all accusations. His trial, originally scheduled to begin later this year, has been postponed until June 2027.
Partey exchanged Arsenal for the Spanish Villarreal last year and is considered one of the most important players of the Ghana national team. With 57 international matches, he is one of the experienced players within the selection. Earlier this month he played during the practice match against Wales.
Although he will miss the opening match against Panama, Partey may still play for Ghana later in the tournament. The remaining group matches will be played in the United States. Ghana will face England in Foxborough on June 23, while Croatia will be their final group stage opponents in Philadelphia on June 27.
The midfielder remains free pending his trial. Another hearing in the case is scheduled for October 2.
