Thomas Partey ruled out of Ghana’s opening match as Canada rejects visa application

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his country’s World Cup opener against Panama after Canadian authorities rejected his visa application, FIFA confirmed on Friday.

The 32-year-old was expected to travel with the rest of the Ghana squad from his team’s base camp in Boston to Canada for Wednesday’s Group L match, but FIFA said Partey would not be able to make the trip following a decision by the Canadian government.

“FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will not be able to travel from Ghana’s base camp in Boston, USA to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, as his visa application has been rejected by the Canadian government,” FIFA said in a statement provided to Reuters.

The world governing body added that it has no role in immigration issues affecting the host countries of the tournaments. Canadian authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the decision.

While Partey will miss Ghana’s opening tournament, he remains fit for the Black Stars’ remaining Group L matches. Ghana will face England in Boston before taking on Croatia in Philadelphia, with both games taking place in the United States.

Partey is currently with the rest of the Ghanaian squad and continues to prepare with the team despite the travel setback. His absence is a significant blow for Ghana ahead of the crucial opening clash against Panama.

The experienced midfielder has 57 caps and remains one of Ghana’s most respected players. He featured in the team’s final warm-up game against Wales on 2 June as preparations for the tournament intensified.

LEGAL CASE CONTINUES

Partey’s visa refusal comes amid ongoing legal proceedings in the UK. The former Arsenal midfielder faces allegations of rape and sexual assault, allegations he has consistently denied.

According to previous reports, the trial, originally due to start later this year at Southwark Crown Court, has been postponed and is now due to start on June 8, 2027.

Partey appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to all charges. He remains out on bail pending court proceedings and is subject to conditions, including restrictions preventing contact with the alleged victims.

After spending five years at Arsenal between 2020 and 2025Partey transferred to Spain’s Villarreal. Despite the ongoing court case, he remained available for club and international selection.

His next court hearing is scheduled for October 2, while Ghana will now prepare to open their World Cup campaign against Panama without one of their most experienced midfielders.

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Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

13 Jun 2026 0:15 AM IST