Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey denied Canada visa over sexual assault charges, will miss World Cup opener against Panama

Ghana will be without one of its key players for the first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Midfielder Thomas Partey has been barred from entering Canada after his visa application was rejected, a decision linked to multiple criminal charges he faces in England. The 57-cap Ghana international, currently at Villarreal, will miss the June 17 game against Panama in Toronto.

Legal charges in England

Partey was charged by London's Metropolitan Police in July 2025 with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. He pleaded not guilty in September of the same year. In February 2026, two additional rape charges were filed, to which he also pleaded not guilty in April. The investigation that led to the charges began in February 2022. Partey remains on bail with conditions including a prohibition on contacting the accusers and a requirement to inform police of any foreign travel.

Canada's immigration decision

The Canadian government's immigration website states that individuals who have committed or been convicted of a crime may be deemed inadmissible. Although Partey has not been convicted, his pending charges triggered the refusal. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) told The Athletic that it applies rules consistently.

“We can state that the safety and security of Canadians are our priority as we welcome participants and guests of the World Cup. Therefore, IRCC applies the rules consistently and without exceptions, regardless of nationality, status or role.”

FIFA's response

FIFA confirmed the situation in a statement, emphasizing that host countries control visa issuance and immigration procedures.

“FIFA can confirm that Thomas Partey will not be able to travel to Canada for his first match against Panama because his visa application was rejected by the government. FIFA does not participate in immigration procedures, including visa processing.”

Timeline of events

Ghana's World Cup path

Partey is currently with the Ghana squad at their base in Boston, United States. While the Canada trip is off, his legal status does not prevent him from entering the United States. Ghana's two subsequent group matches will both be played on U.S. soil: against England in Foxborough and Croatia in Philadelphia. Partey is expected to be available for both fixtures.