World Cup 2026: Canada denies entry to Ghana's Thomas Partey

FIFA confirms. Ghana to play without their midfielder against Panama in Toronto

Africa 12 June 2026 at 13:46

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World Cup 2026: Canada denies entry to Ghana's Thomas Partey

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Ghana

Panama

Another shock at the World Cup. Following the incident with referee Omar Artan, Canada has refused entry to Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey as the Ghanaian squad heads to face Panama on June 17 in Toronto.

Thomas Partey's visa application was rejected, meaning the midfielder will be unable to feature in Ghana's opening match against Panama on June 17 in Toronto.

Thomas Partey has been denied entry to Canada, as reported by @Dan_Sheldon_.

The Canadian government refused to grant him a visa, so he will not be able to represent Ghana against Panama on June 17.

Partey faces multiple rape allegations, five from last year and two in February. He has pleaded not guilty… pic.twitter.com/r2vxRsafIl
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) June 12, 2026

FIFA confirms

The reasons for this decision have not been explicitly stated. The 32-year-old midfielder is facing several rape charges in the United Kingdom during his time with Arsenal. As a result, Partey will remain in Washington, D.C., where the Black Stars have been holding their training camp since June 4.
FIFA confirmed the situation to The Athletic , stressing that it does not intervene in immigration processes of host countries.

🚨🇬🇭 Thomas Partey has been denied entry to Canada and will not be available for Ghana’s World Cup opener — according to reports from @Dan_Sheldon_. pic.twitter.com/MnWUNNzHAD
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 12, 2026