Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his team's World Cup opening match on Wednesday after Canada rejected his visa application while he awaits trial in London on multiple rape charges.
FIFA announced in a statement on 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.
“His visa application was rejected by the Canadian government,” said the world football governing body. “FIFA does not interfere in the immigration procedures of host countries, including the granting of visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government has the final say on who receives a visa and is allowed to enter the country.”
The Ghana Football Association did not immediately respond to an email asking for comment.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada said in a statement that each person wishing to come to Canada is subject to an individual assessment "based on the available facts and applicable legislation."
“Canada is proud to be one of the host countries for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is committed to contributing to the success of this event while ensuring the safety of Canadians,” IRCC said in a statement. “Canada has always maintained that hosting major events does not change its immigration laws.”
After his visa application was denied, Partey returned to Ghana's training camp in Rhode Island. He will be eligible to play on June 23 when Ghana faces England in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Ghana will conclude the group stage on June 27 against Croatia in Philadelphia.
Partey is expected to appear in court in November or later for offenses dating back to his time at English club Arsenal, between 2020 and 2025. Partey, who now plays in Spain for Villarreal, has pleaded not guilty.
A second player participating in the World Cup, Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi, is awaiting trial in Paris for similar offenses.
Ghana is participating in its fifth World Cup out of the last six editions.
