Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss the Black Stars’ opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Panama after his appeal against Canada’s decision to deny him entry was dismissed, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Villarreal midfielder was initially refused a visa after Canadian immigration officials reviewed his application ahead of the tournament. Partey, who previously featured for Arsenal, is facing allegations in the United Kingdom, including multiple counts of rape and sexual assault. He denies the allegations and has pleaded not guilty.
According to court documents, Partey’s visa application submitted in May stated that he had not been charged with any criminal offence in any country. Canadian authorities later raised concerns over the declaration and ruled that he was inadmissible under the country’s immigration regulations.
The 33-year-old and his legal representatives challenged the decision, arguing that the refusal would prevent him from representing Ghana at the World Cup and cause significant professional and reputational harm. They also claimed he was not given sufficient time to respond before the decision was made.
However, the Federal Court rejected the appeal, ruling that the absence of a conviction did not prevent Canadian authorities from making an immigration determination. The country’s immigration officials maintained that hosting the World Cup does not alter its entry requirements.
The decision means Partey will miss Ghana’s opening Group L fixture against Panama, although the midfielder has since entered the United States and remains available for the Black Stars’ remaining group-stage matches against England and Croatia.
Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz, speaking before the ruling, said the team would focus on preparing with the players available.
