Ghana's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt a significant blow after midfielder Thomas Partey was refused entry into Canada ahead of the Black Stars' opening group-stage match against Panama.
FIFA confirmed on Friday that the 32-year-old will be unable to travel from Ghana's training base in Boston, Massachusetts, to Toronto, where Ghana are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17.
The governing body clarified that the decision was made by Canadian authorities and that FIFA has no involvement in the immigration processes of host nations.
"FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas," a FIFA spokesperson said.
Partey has been training with the Ghana squad in the United States after being granted entry into the country earlier this month. However, Canada's decision means the experienced midfielder will miss what could be a crucial opening fixture for the Black Stars.
The former Arsenal midfielder, who currently plays for Villarreal in Spain, remains available for Ghana's remaining Group L matches against England in Boston and Croatia in Philadelphia, both of which will be played in the United States.
The situation has attracted significant attention due to the ongoing legal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom. The midfielder has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges of rape and sexual assault and remains on bail pending trial. Canadian authorities have not publicly confirmed whether the legal case influenced their visa decision.
Neither the Canadian government nor the Ghana Football Association had issued detailed comments at the time of publication.
For Ghana, the absence of one of their most experienced players is a major setback. Partey has been a central figure for the Black Stars for several years and was expected to play a key role as Ghana attempt to progress from a challenging group that also includes England and Croatia.
The Black Stars will now need to find a solution in midfield as they prepare to face Panama without one of their most influential players.
With the World Cup set to showcase the best footballing talent from around the globe, Partey's absence from Ghana's opener serves as an early reminder that off-field issues can have a significant impact on events on the pitch.
As things stand, Ghana will begin their 2026 World Cup journey without one of their most recognisable stars, while attention turns to whether the Black Stars can overcome the setback and make a strong start to their campaign.
