Thomas Partey denied entry into Canada, will miss Ghana’s World Cup opener

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his team's World Cup opener after Canada rejected his visa application due to multiple rape charges he faces in the United Kingdom.

FIFA announced on Friday that the 32-year-old Partey cannot travel from Ghana's base camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island, to Toronto for Wednesday's match against Panama.

"His visa application has been refused by the Canadian government," FIFA stated. "FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country."

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said in a statement that every person seeking entry is assessed individually "based on the facts available and the law that applies."

"Canada is proud to be a host country for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is working to facilitate a successful event while maintaining the safety and security of Canadians," IRCC said. "Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws."

Partey is returning to Ghana's base camp in Rhode Island after the visa denial. He will be eligible to play on June 23 when Ghana face England in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Ghana conclude group play on June 27 against Croatia in Philadelphia.

Partey is scheduled to stand trial in November or later on allegations dating to his time with English club Arsenal from 2020-25. He now plays for Villarreal in Spain and has pleaded not guilty.

Another World Cup player, Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi, is awaiting trial on similar charges in Paris.

Ghana are making their fifth appearance in the last six World Cups.