Thomas Partey refused to enter Canada, will miss the start of the Ghana World Cup | World Cup 2026 news

Partey’s visa was refused due to the numerous criminal charges he faces in the United Kingdom.

Ghanaian forward Thomas Partey will not play in his World Cup opener after Canada rejected his visa application while he awaits trial on rape charges in the United Kingdom.

FIFA said in a statement on Friday that Partey, 32, will not be able to leave his team’s camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island, for Ghana’s opening match against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday.

“His visa application has been rejected by the Canadian government,” soccer’s governing body said in a statement.

“FIFA is not involved in the immigration process of the host countries, including deciding on visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government decides who will receive a visa and be allowed to enter the country.”

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said that each person who wants to come to Canada is assessed individually “based on the available information and the law in force”.

“Canada is proud to be the host nation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is working to make it a success while maintaining the safety and security of Canadians,” IRCC said.

“Canada has always agreed that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws.”

Partey returns to the Ghanaian camp in Rhode Island after being denied a visa. He will be able to play on June 23 when Ghana plays England in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Ghana finished their group stage on June 27 against Croatia in Philadelphia.

Partey is expected to be charged in November or later on charges related to his time with English club Arsenal from 2020-2025. Partey, who now plays for Spain’s Villarreal, refused.

A second World Cup player, Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi, is awaiting the same trial in Paris.

Ghana is in the fifth place in the last six World Cups.