Why Thomas Partey Cannot Play for Ghana vs Panama
Thomas Partey will not be allowed to play for Ghana against Panama in their World Cup opener. Here is the reason why.
Visa Refused by Canada
The Canadian government officially rejected Thomas Partey's application for a temporary residence visa. Because he cannot legally enter Canada, he is unable to join the rest of the Ghana national team for their match in Toronto.
Serious Criminal Charges
Under Canadian immigration law, foreign nationals can be deemed inadmissible if they face outstanding serious criminal charges abroad. Partey is currently facing seven counts of alleged rape and one count of alleged sexual assault involving multiple women in the United Kingdom.
Why He Was Denied a Visa
Canadian immigration authorities argued that the detailed and graphic nature of the sexual violence allegations justified his exclusion. According to Canadian law, entry can be denied for foreign charges that carry a potential sentence of 10 years or more if prosecuted inside Canada.
Laws Cannot Be Changed
Even though Canada is co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, both FIFA and the Canadian government confirmed that hosting a major global sporting tournament does not alter or bypass the country's strict immigration, safety, and border protection laws.
Emergency Appeal Fails
Partey's legal team filed an eleventh-hour emergency challenge in Canada's Federal Court to overturn the immigration department's ruling. His lawyers argued his presumption of innocence and that he has a US visa, but the court ultimately rejected the appeal.
Partey Stuck in the USA
Because his visa was denied, the 32-year-old midfielder had to leave Canada's border perimeter and return to Ghana's training base camp in Rhode Island. He will remain there until Ghana travel for their subsequent group stage matches hosted in the United States, against England and Croatia.
Can Partey Play Against England?
Because England are due to face Ghana at the Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Partey will be eligible to play for Ghana in their next Group L match on June 23. He has a visa to play in the US.
