Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his team's opening match at the 2026 World Cup after Canada refused his visa application, citing rape allegations the 32-year-old player faces in the United Kingdom.
FIFA confirmed in a statement on Friday that Partey could not travel from Ghana's base in Smithfield, Rhode Island, to Toronto for Wednesday's match against Panama.
“His visa application was refused by the government of Canada,” world football's governing body said. “FIFA is not involved in the immigration process of host countries, including visa adjudication. As with previous FIFA events, it is for the host government to decide who receives a visa and who is permitted entry.”
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stressed that each individual seeking to enter Canada is assessed “based on the facts available and the applicable laws.” “Canada is proud to be the host of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and is working to facilitate a successful event while maintaining the safety and security of Canadians,” IRCC said. “Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change our immigration laws.”
Partey returned to Ghana's base in Rhode Island after the visa refusal. He will be eligible to play on June 23 when Ghana faces England in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Ghana ends its group stage on June 27 against Croatia in Philadelphia.
Partey is expected to appear in court in November or later regarding the allegations dating from his time playing for Arsenal in England from 2020 to 2025. Partey, who now plays for Villarreal in Spain, has pleaded not guilty.
Another World Cup player, Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi, is also awaiting trial on similar charges in Paris.
Ghana is making its fifth appearance in the last six World Cups.
