Ghana’s hopes of having Thomas Partey available for their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a major blow after a Canadian court dismissed the midfielder’s appeal against the denial of his visa application.
The ruling means the Black Stars midfielder will be unable to travel to Canada for Ghana’s Group Stage clash against Panama, despite diplomatic efforts by the Ghanaian government to secure his entry into the country.
Canadian immigration authorities initially rejected Partey’s Temporary Resident Visa application, citing ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where the player faces multiple rape charges. The decision prompted Ghanaian officials to intervene, arguing that the Arsenal midfielder has not been convicted of any offence and should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa recently confirmed that the government was engaging Canadian authorities in an attempt to resolve the issue before Ghana’s opening fixture. However, the court’s latest decision has effectively ended those efforts for now, leaving Partey unavailable for selection unless a further legal or administrative resolution is reached.
The development represents a significant setback for Ghana as they prepare to begin their World Cup campaign. Partey, one of the team’s most experienced players, was expected to play a central role in the Black Stars’ bid to advance beyond the group stage.
His absence is likely to be felt both on and off the pitch, with supporters having hoped a diplomatic breakthrough would allow the influential midfielder to join the squad in time for the tournament opener.
