Ghanaian World Cup player denied visa in Canada

Toronto – Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has been denied entry into Canada, which will cost him their opening match against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday.

Partey, a former Arsenal midfielder, faces seven counts of rape in the United Kingdom relating to four different women. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.

While he is out on bail, his trial was originally scheduled for November, but sources indicate it may be postponed until January of next year. The bail restrictions include avoiding contact with the alleged victims and informing the court if he decides to go abroad. 

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Canada has refused him a visa, with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) saying it assesses visa applications case-by-case and individually “based on the facts available and the law that applies”.

“Canada is proud to be a host country for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is working to facilitate a successful event while maintaining the safety and security of Canadians,” the IRCC said in the statement.

FIFA said Partey, 33, who has been granted a US visa, will be unable to travel to Toronto. He is expected to remain at Ghana’s base camp in Boston while the Ghanaian government has requested a review of the decision.

Ghana Sports Minister Kofi Adams stated that the basis on which Partey was treated in the 2026 World Cup are dubious.

“Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws.”