Ghana will be without experienced midfielder Thomas Partey for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama after Canadian authorities denied his visa application, Trybal News reports.
The Black Stars are set to begin their World Cup campaign in Toronto on Wednesday, but Partey will not travel with the squad from their training base in the United States following the decision by the Canadian government.
FIFA confirmed the development in a statement, explaining that the governing body has no role in the visa approval process of host nations.
“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,” the statement read.
“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.”
The 32-year-old midfielder is currently facing legal proceedings in England after being charged by London’s Metropolitan Police with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. Partey has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
His trial, which had initially been scheduled to begin later this year, has been postponed and is now set to commence on June 8, 2027, at Southwark Crown Court. The former Arsenal player remains on bail and is subject to conditions, including restrictions on contacting the alleged victims.
Partey, who currently plays for Villarreal, has earned 57 caps for Ghana and featured in the team’s recent warm-up fixture against Wales on June 2. However, he will play no part in Ghana’s opening Group stage encounter as the Black Stars seek a positive start to their World Cup campaign.
The Ghana Football Association and Canadian immigration authorities are yet to issue official comments on the matter.
