2026 World Cup: FIFA releases statement as Partey is denied entry into Canada

FIFA has confirmed that Ghana’s Thomas Partey will not be able to travel to Canada for the 2026 World Cup opener against Panama.

Partey has been denied a visa to enter North America amid allegations of rape.

He will therefore miss the Black Stars’ first match of the tournament.

FIFA said in a statement on Friday: “FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana’s Team Base Camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government.”

“FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas,” the governing body added. “As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.”