Thomas Partey Denied Entry to Canada for 2026 World Cup Opener
Published June 13, 2026
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his country's opening 2026 FIFA World Cup fixture in Canada after his visa application was refused by Canadian authorities, reportedly due to ongoing legal issues.
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Ghana's national team will be without key midfielder Thomas Partey for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada. The 32-year-old, who was set to travel with the squad from their base in Rhode Island to Toronto for Wednesday's encounter against Panama, has been denied entry by Canadian immigration officials. This refusal stems from an ongoing legal situation, as Partey is reportedly awaiting trial in London on multiple charges.
FIFA officially confirmed the development on Friday, clarifying that while they facilitate the tournament, the ultimate decision on entry rests with the host nations. The governing body stated that it does not intervene in the immigration procedures of host countries, including visa adjudication, and that governments retain full authority over who is granted admission. This underscores the sovereign right of nations like Canada, one of three hosts for the expanded 48-team tournament alongside the USA and Mexico, to enforce their immigration laws.
The Canadian government, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, issued a statement reiterating that all entry requests are evaluated individually based on available facts and applicable laws. While Canada is preparing to host World Cup matches in June and July 2026, it maintains its commitment to national safety and security through its immigration policies. The Ghana Football Association has not yet commented on the situation surrounding their prominent player.