Thomas Partey will miss Ghana’s opening fixture at the World Cup after authorities in Canada refused his entry visa, creating a major setback for the West African side just days before kick off.
The midfielder, who is part of the Ghana national football team squad, was scheduled to travel from the team base in Smithfield, Rhode Island, but was stopped from entering Canada ahead of their Group D opener against Panama national football team in Toronto.
World football’s governing body, FIFA, confirmed that the player’s application had been turned down by Canadian immigration officials. FIFA stressed that it does not interfere in visa decisions, explaining that final approval always rests with the host nation’s authorities.
Canadian immigration officials under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada stated that every applicant is reviewed individually based on legal criteria and available information. They added that while Canada is committed to successfully hosting the tournament, security and immigration rules remain unchanged despite the scale of the event.
The situation leaves Ghana without one of their most experienced midfielders for a crucial opening match. However, reports indicate that Partey may still be available later in the group stage. Ghana are scheduled to face England national football team on June 23 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, before concluding their group campaign against Croatia national football team on June 27 in Philadelphia.
The 32 year old is currently involved in ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom relating to serious allegations from his time in English football. He has denied the charges and is expected to face trial later in the year.
Partey, who now plays club football for Villarreal CF, is required to return to camp in Rhode Island after being informed of the visa refusal.
In a related development, Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi is also reported to be facing separate legal proceedings in Paris, adding further off field attention to players competing at this tournament.
The incident has sparked wider discussion around how host nations manage player eligibility and legal concerns during major international competitions, especially when legal cases are still pending and no verdict has been reached.
Ghana now turn their focus to preparing for their opening fixture without one of their key midfield leaders, as they look to navigate a challenging group stage under unexpected circumstances.
