Partey Ruled Out of Black Stars' World Cup Opener After Canada Visa Denial

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey is set to miss the Black Stars' opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto after Canadian authorities refused him entry. The Arsenal star was unable to travel from Ghana's team base camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for the June 17 opener against Panama.

FIFA confirmed Partey's situation in a statement to The Athletic, emphasizing that the organization has no role in immigration decisions. "FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas," the statement read. "As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country."

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FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana’s team base camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government

Canadian immigration regulations stipulate that individuals who have committed or been convicted of a crime may be denied entry. Partey is currently facing charges in the UK but is awaiting trial, meaning he has not yet been convicted of any offense. This legal status appears to be the basis for the visa refusal.

The Black Stars will therefore have to proceed without their key midfield player for the crucial Group E opener. The team is preparing for the match against Panama without one of its most important assets, highlighting the impact of off-field administrative issues on team performance.

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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.