Partey's visa was denied due to the multiple rape charges he faces in the UK.
Published June 13, 2026
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey will not play in his team's first World Cup match after Canada denied his visa application as he awaits trial on multiple rape charges in the United Kingdom.
FIFA said in a statement Friday that Partey, 32, will not be able to travel from his team's base camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island, for Ghana's opening match against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday.
“His visa application has been rejected by the Canadian government,” world football's governing body said.
“FIFA is not involved in host countries' immigration processes, including the adjudication of visas. As in previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted to the country.”
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said in a statement that each person who wishes to come to Canada is assessed individually “based on the available facts and applicable law.”
“Canada is proud to be the host country of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is working to facilitate a successful event while maintaining the safety of Canadians,” IRCC said in the statement.
“Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada's immigration laws.”
Partey was traveling back to Ghana's base camp in Rhode Island after being denied a visa. He will be able to play on June 23 when Ghana plays England in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Ghana will conclude the group stage on June 27 against Croatia in Philadelphia.
Partey is scheduled to stand trial in November or later over allegations dating back to his time at English club Arsenal between 2020 and 25. Partey, who now plays in Spain for Villarreal, has pleaded not guilty.
A second World Cup player, Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi, is awaiting trial on similar charges in Paris.
Ghana will be making their fifth appearance in the last six World Cups.
