The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has confirmed that Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will be unable to participate in the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Canadian authorities denied his visa application.

Partey, one of Ghana’s most experienced players, was expected to feature in the country’s Group L opener against Panama national football team on June 17 in Toronto. However, the midfielder will now miss the crucial fixture after being refused entry into Canada.

In a statement released on Friday, FIFA clarified that the decision was made solely by the Canadian government and not by football’s global governing body.

“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,” FIFA said.

The organization further emphasized that immigration matters remain the responsibility of host nations.

“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,” the statement added.

The development comes amid ongoing legal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom. The 32-year-old, who currently plays for Villarreal CF, faces multiple rape and sexual assault charges, all of which he has denied. Reports indicate that the allegations played a role in Canada’s decision to reject his visa application.

Despite being unable to enter Canada, Partey remains eligible to stay with Ghana’s squad in the United States, where the team has been training ahead of the tournament. He is also expected to be available for Ghana’s subsequent World Cup matches scheduled to take place on U.S. soil, including games against England national football team and Croatia national football team.

The absence of Partey represents a significant setback for Ghana as the Black Stars begin their World Cup campaign without one of their most influential midfielders. The team will now look to secure a positive result against Panama as they seek to advance from Group L.

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