Ghana international Thomas Partey has been refused entry into Canada just days before Ghana’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, creating a major setback for the Black Stars ahead of the tournament.
FIFA confirmed that Partey was unable to travel from Ghana’s training base in Boston to Toronto with the rest of the squad after Canadian authorities rejected his visa application.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who currently plays for Villarreal CF after leaving Arsenal FC in 2025, is currently facing multiple criminal charges in the United Kingdom, including allegations of rape and sexual assault involving four women.
The allegations relate to incidents said to have occurred between 2020 and 2022. Partey has denied all charges and pleaded not guilty. His trial is scheduled to begin in June 2027.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Partey remains on bail and has not been convicted of any offence.
FIFA emphasised that immigration decisions remain the responsibility of host governments and not the governing body itself.
“FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas,” the organisation said in a statement.
The United States, where Ghana is based for most of the tournament, confirmed that Partey was granted entry after officials reviewed his case.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, authorities were aware of the pending criminal proceedings but determined that he was eligible for admission under American immigration laws.
Officials stated that all travellers, including athletes and team personnel, are assessed individually using available immigration, law enforcement and national security information.
The agency added that questions regarding Canada’s refusal should be directed to Canadian authorities.
The visa issue means Partey is expected to miss Ghana’s opening Group L match against Panama national football team in Toronto.
However, he remains eligible to participate in Ghana’s remaining group-stage fixtures in the United States, including matches against England national football team in Boston on June 23 and Croatia national football team in Philadelphia on June 27.
The development is a significant blow for Ghana, with Partey widely regarded as one of the team’s most experienced and influential players.
The midfielder joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in a transfer worth approximately £45 million in 2020 and went on to become a key figure for both club and country before moving to Villarreal.
For now, uncertainty remains over whether Canadian authorities will reconsider their decision before Ghana’s opening fixture, leaving the Black Stars facing the possibility of beginning their World Cup campaign without one of their biggest stars.
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