Thomas Partey Could Miss Ghana’s World Cup Opener After Reported Canada Visa Denial

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey is reportedly set to miss the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama following an alleged refusal of his visa application by Canadian authorities.

According to reports cited by *The Athletic*, FIFA has confirmed that Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana’s training base in the United States to Toronto for the Group L encounter scheduled for June 17.

In a statement referenced by the publication, FIFA indicated that immigration and visa decisions remain the responsibility of host governments and fall outside the organisation’s authority.

The governing body reportedly stated that while Partey is part of Ghana’s World Cup squad, it has no role in determining visa approvals or entry permissions granted by host nations.

The development comes amid ongoing legal proceedings involving the 32-year-old midfielder in the United Kingdom. Partey has been charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault and has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The case remains before the courts.

Ghana is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign against Panama at BMO Field before travelling to the United States for subsequent group-stage matches against England in Boston on June 23 and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

Despite widespread reports of the visa issue, Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has stated that he has not received any official communication confirming that Partey has been denied entry into Canada.

Speaking to the media, the minister said he was only aware of previous visa-related challenges involving the player before his eventual entry into the United States and had not been formally briefed on any refusal by Canadian authorities.

Canadian immigration officials have not publicly commented on the matter, citing privacy regulations. However, immigration laws allow authorities to deny entry to individuals who do not meet admissibility requirements.

At the time of reporting, neither the Ghana Football Association nor Canadian immigration authorities had issued a detailed public statement on the reported visa refusal.

If confirmed, Partey’s absence would be a significant setback for the Ghana national football team as they prepare for a crucial opening fixture in their quest to advance beyond the group stage of the tournament.