World Cup controversy: The real reason behind Spence's pre-match snub of Partey

23.06.26 FT World Cup

England

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Ghana

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England's Djed Spence sparked controversy in Boston by refusing to shake Thomas Partey's hand before a tense World Cup 2026 draw against Ghana.

The source of the tension

The pre match rituals of the global tournament took a tense turn when the Tottenham right back bypassed the former Arsenal & Atletico Madrid midfielder during the traditional lineups.

While the highly anticipated fixture ultimately ended in a scoreless stalemate, the off pitch narratives quickly dominated post match discussions.

The root of the tension stems from past legal proceedings in the United Kingdom where Partey faced severe allegations and a subsequent trial regarding sexual assault.

Faith & Personal convictions

Spence who follows the Islamic faith, stood firm on his decision to avoid the greeting.

The English defender explained that his actions are deeply rooted in his religious beliefs and personal morals. While he issued a sincere apology to fans who might have felt disappointed by the gesture, he maintained that staying true to his inner convictions was his ultimate priority refusing to offer further detailed explanations to the press.

Pundits demand professionalism

The incident quickly ignited fierce debates across British media. Former Manchester United captain Patrice Evra heavily criticized the young fullback labeling the public snub as a cowardly move.

Evra argued that personal disputes should be handled behind closed doors adding that Spence has yet to achieve the footballing heights that his Ghanaian counterpart has reached.

Similarly former England defender Rio Ferdinand questioned the lack of professional courtesy reminding the public that the standard of justice relies on the strict presumption of innocence until guilt is definitively proven.

Maintaining focus amid scrutiny

Despite the media storm, the Black Stars midfielder actively downplayed the friction. In an official statement, he noted that he still felt a deep sense of respect from the broader English squad, both past and present.

Partey emphasized his dedication to his national badge and his absolute confidence in the legal process stating he remains focused on leading his team with courage and inspiring the next generation.

Tournament logistics have already presented a unique hurdle for the midfielder. He was recently barred from entering Canada forcing him to miss Ghana’s opening fixture. With his national side currently sitting on 4 points and eyeing the knockout stages, his availability remains a massive concern should the draw force the African team to travel back across the Canadian border.

A history of pre-match snubs

Refusing a pre match handshake is a rare but highly documented phenomenon in football history, often creating iconic, tension filled moments.

Luis Suárez & Patrice Evra (2012): Liverpool striker Luis Suárez was handed an 8 match suspension after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra during a previous match.

In their first meeting following the suspension at Old Trafford in February 2012, Suárez deliberately avoided shaking Evra's hand during the pre match lineups. Evra attempted to grab his arm to force the handshake but Suárez bypassed him to shake hands with goalkeeper David de Gea.

The incident sparked outrage from legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson who branded Suárez a "disgrace to Liverpool Football Club"

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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