Thomas Partey Denied Canada Entry for World Cup Match; Ghana Seeks Review
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has been denied entry into Canada for a 2026 World Cup match against Panama in Toronto. This decision means Partey, who faces seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault charges in London, will miss the upcoming game. Ghana's Sports Minister, Kofi Adams, has criticized the denial, calling the grounds "flimsy" given Partey has not been convicted, and has formally requested a review of the decision from Canadian authorities. Partey, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, currently remains at Ghana’s base camp in Boston.
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has been denied entry into Canada, preventing him from participating in his country's upcoming 2026 World Cup match against Panama in Toronto. This denial stems from pending legal proceedings against Partey in London, where he faces seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault charges from the Metropolitan Police.
Partey, 33, who plays for Spanish club Villarreal and previously for Arsenal, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His trial was initially set for November but could be delayed until January next year. Despite these charges, he remains on bail and continues to live and play freely in the UK, according to Ghana's sports minister.
Ghana's Sports Minister, Kofi Adams, has strongly disputed the decision, labeling the grounds for denial as "flimsy." He emphasized that Partey has not been found guilty of any crime and criticized Canada's interpretation of its rules. Adams confirmed that Ghana has formally communicated with the relevant authorities, requesting a review of the decision, which he believes contradicts international laws and conventions.
Canada’s government website indicates that visitors may be denied entry if they have "committed or been convicted of a crime." Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada stated that every individual seeking entry is assessed based on available facts and applicable law, and hosting major events does not alter Canada's immigration policies.
FIFA also issued a statement, clarifying its non-involvement in the immigration processes of host countries, including visa adjudication. The organization noted that host governments ultimately determine who receives a visa and is admitted into their country.
Partey has been granted a US visa and will be eligible to play in Ghana’s other group games in the United States, including matches against England in Boston on June 23 and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27. The allegations against Partey reportedly involve four different women.
According to Yahoo Sports Soccer, Partey will remain at Ghana's base camp in Boston.
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