Ghana will be without one of its most recognizable players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign after midfielder Thomas Partey was denied entry into Canada.
FIFA confirmed Thursday that Partey, currently facing multiple counts of rape and sexual assault in the United Kingdom, will not be available for Ghana’s Group L opener against Panama in Toronto after Canadian authorities rejected his visa application.
Partey has denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty. The legal proceedings reportedly remain ongoing.
The decision means the veteran midfielder cannot travel to the host city despite already being with Ghana’s World Cup squad in North America.
“His visa application has been refused by the Canadian government,” the governing body of world soccer said. “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 the Canadian government has not publicly detailed the reasons behind the visa denial, reports indicate that the decision was tied to Canada’s immigration policies.
As a result, FIFA has no authority to overturn Canada’s ruling or grant an exemption allowing Partey to participate in the Toronto match.
The absence highlights a significant setback for Ghana, whh entered the tournament hoping to lean on Partey’s experience.
The 32-year-old has been a key figure for the national team and was expected to play a major role in helping the Black Stars advance from a difficult group that also includes England and Croatia.
The good news for Ghana is that Partey could still play in the World Cup.
Because the team’s remaining group-stage matches will be played in the United States, he remains eligible to join the squad for those contests if no additional travel restrictions arise.
Ghana is scheduled to face England in Boston before finishing off group play against Croatia in Philadelphia.
For now, Ghana will have to begin its World Cup journey without one of its most experienced players, while uncertainty remains about the role Partey may ultimately play for the rest of the tournament.
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