Ghana's Partey barred from Canada for World Cup opener against Panama

Ghana will begin its 2026 World Cup campaign without midfielder Thomas Partey after Canadian immigration authorities rejected his visa application. The 32-year-old Spanish-based player was set to travel with the Black Stars for their June 17 opening fixture against Panama in Toronto but will now be absent from the squad.

Canadian government policy prevents entry for individuals facing charges related to sexual offences. According to reports, Partey is currently awaiting trial on allegations of sexual assault, a matter that has triggered the immigration denial.

The player has denied the charges against him. FIFA confirmed the development on Friday, stating that the organisation does not intervene in immigration decisions made by host nations.

The governing body clarified that visa adjudication remains the sole responsibility of each country's government authorities, not FIFA. Ghana's team will operate from a base camp in Boston, United States, before travelling to Canada for matches.

Partey's unavailability represents a significant loss for Ghana ahead of the group stage, given his experience in European club football with Villarreal. The sources consulted did not specify whether the player might become available for later World Cup matches should his immigration circumstances change.