Ghana to Seek Review of Canada’s Visa Denial for Thomas Partey Ahead of 2026 World Cup Opener
The Government of Ghana is set to formally request a review of Canada’s decision to deny Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey a visa, preventing him from participating in the team’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Villarreal midfielder was ruled out of Ghana’s Group L opener against Panama in Toronto after Canadian authorities refused his visa application. FIFA confirmed the development on Friday, stating it has no authority over host countries’ immigration decisions.
“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,” the world governing body said.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams confirmed that the government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has engaged the relevant Canadian authorities to challenge the decision.
“As has been indicated by His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama, and the mandate through his Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, that any Ghanaian touched anywhere, we will not keep quiet over it. Through the appropriate channels, we have communicated to the rightful authorities and are requesting them to review the decision. I hope and pray that they do what they must do, and do it right,” Mr. Adams told Citi FM.
Partey, who has already secured entry into the United States and is currently training with the Black Stars at their base in Boston, remains eligible for Ghana’s remaining Group L matches against England and Croatia, both scheduled to be played in the US.
The 32-year-old is currently facing criminal charges in the United Kingdom, including seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the case is still before the British courts.
Ghana is scheduled to open its World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto before returning to the United States for the remaining group fixtures.
The visa controversy has sparked widespread debate in Ghana, with many questioning the decision given Partey’s central role in the team and his compliance with legal obligations in other jurisdictions. The government’s move to seek a review underscores its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of Ghanaian athletes on the international stage.
