Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his country’s opening World Cup match against Panama after Canadian authorities refused his visa application, FIFA confirmed on Friday.
The 32-year-old was expected to travel with the rest of the Ghana squad from their team base camp in Boston to Canada for Wednesday’s Group L fixture. However, FIFA said Partey would be unable to make the trip following the decision by the Canadian government.
“FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana’s Team Base Camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government,” FIFA said in a statement provided to Reuters.
The world governing body added that it does not play any role in immigration matters involving tournament host nations. Canadian authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the decision.
While Partey will be absent for Ghana’s tournament opener, he remains eligible for the Black Stars’ remaining Group L fixtures. Ghana face England in Boston before taking on Croatia in Philadelphia, with both matches set to be played in the United States.
Partey is currently with the rest of the Ghana squad and has continued preparations with the team despite the travel setback. His absence represents a significant blow for Ghana ahead of a crucial opening encounter against Panama.
The experienced midfielder has earned 57 international caps and remains one of Ghana’s most recognisable players. He featured in the team’s final warm-up match against Wales on June 2 as preparations intensified for the tournament.
LEGAL CASE CONTINUES
Partey’s visa refusal comes amid ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. The former Arsenal midfielder faces allegations of rape and sexual assault, charges he has consistently denied.
According to previous reports, a trial originally scheduled to begin later this year at Southwark Crown Court has been postponed and is now set to start on June 8, 2027.
Partey has appeared in court and entered not guilty pleas to all charges. He remains on bail while legal proceedings continue and is subject to conditions, including a restriction preventing contact with the alleged victims.
After spending five years at Arsenal between 2020 and 2025, Partey moved to Spanish side Villarreal. Despite the ongoing legal case, he has remained available for club and international selection.
His next court hearing is scheduled for Oct. 2, while Ghana will now prepare to begin their World Cup campaign against Panama without one of their most experienced midfielders.
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