News Focus
- Canadian officials block Thomas Partey’s visa for Ghana’s World Cup opener against Panama
- The midfielder faces seven rape charges and one sexual assault allegation from four women between 2020 and 2022
- US authorities granted Partey entry, allowing him to face England in Boston on June 23
- FIFA confirms host countries control all immigration decisions independently
- The Villarreal player denies all charges ahead of his June 2027 trial
Thomas Partey cannot travel to Canada for Ghana’s first World Cup match. Immigration officials in Toronto rejected his visa application. This prevents the midfielder from joining his teammates for the clash against Panama.
The 32-year-old now plays for Villarreal in La Liga. He transferred from Arsenal in 2025. British police have charged him with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. Four women made these allegations about incidents between 2020 and 2022. Partey denies every charge.
A UK court granted Partey bail until his trial starts in June 2027. His bail conditions forbid contact with the alleged victims. Despite his legal status, US Customs officials admitted him on June 3. This clearance allows him to remain with the Ghana squad in Boston.
The Black Stars trained in the United States before the tournament. While the team flew to Toronto for the Panama game, Partey stayed behind. He will return to action if selected for the England match on June 23 in Boston. Ghana will also play Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.
FIFA issued a statement regarding the refusal. The governing body explained that they do not manage visa processes. Individual host governments decide who enters their territory.
Canadian authorities defended their decision. They stated that hosting the World Cup does not change immigration laws. Officials noted that foreign nationals may face entry bans without criminal convictions. This rule applies when reasonable grounds suggest inadmissible acts occurred.
US Customs and Border Protection confirmed they inspected Partey upon arrival. They acknowledged awareness of his pending court case. However, they admitted him because he has no criminal conviction. All travellers to the United States undergo case-by-case checks.
Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for £45 million. He spent five years in North London before his move to Spain. His next court hearing is scheduled for October 2026.