2026 World Cup: Canada court dismisses Partey’s visa appeal

Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey will miss Ghana’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a Canadian court dismissed his appeal against the denial of a visa to enter the country.

The decision comes despite efforts by the Government of Ghana to secure the player’s entry through diplomatic channels following an earlier refusal of his Temporary Resident Visa application by Canadian authorities.

Partey was denied entry into Canada due to ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where he faces multiple rape charges. Canadian immigration authorities cited the case in refusing his visa application.

The Ghanaian government subsequently mounted a diplomatic effort to reverse the decision, arguing that the midfielder had not been convicted of any offence and should be presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa had disclosed that Ghana was actively engaging Canadian authorities to find a solution ahead of the Black Stars’ opening Group Stage match against Panama on Wednesday, June 17.

However, the latest ruling means Partey will remain unavailable for selection unless there is a further legal or administrative breakthrough.

His absence is expected to be a major setback for Ghana’s World Cup campaign, given his importance to the national team and his role as one of the Black Stars’ most experienced players.

The midfielder was expected to play a key role in Ghana’s quest to progress beyond the group stage, with many supporters hoping diplomatic efforts would secure his participation in the tournament.

Ghana opens its World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17.