Thomas Partey denied entry to Canada, misses World Cup opener

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was barred from entering Canada for the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a Canadian court rejected his appeal. The court found he had falsely declared on his visa application that he faced no criminal charges, while he is under investigation in the United Kingdom for multiple sexual‑assault allegations.

As a result, Partey will miss Ghana’s first‑stage game against Panama in Toronto. The team will continue its group matches in the United States, where Partey has been granted entry. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz said the squad will adapt to the decision and focus on the remaining games.

Canadian immigration officials reiterated that the country’s visa rules apply equally to all applicants, regardless of the event’s profile.