The world football governing body, FIFA, has sent a message to former Arsenal star Thomas Partey after he was denied entry into Canada for the 2026 World Cup. The Ghanaian vice captain will miss the Black Stars' first match against Panama on Thursday, June 18, at Toronto’s BMO Field.
Canada Refuses Visa
The Canadian authorities refused Partey’s visa application, preventing him from travelling from Ghana’s team base in the United States to Canada. The Villareal midfielder was selected in Ghana’s squad and joined his teammates in Washington D.C. on June 4, before the squad moved to their training base in Rhode Island.
FIFA's Statement
FIFA has denied playing any role in the denial of Thomas Partey’s visa. In a statement, FIFA claimed that the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country. The statement read: "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. As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country."
Background of Charges
Partey was charged with five counts of sexual abuse and one count of sexual assault by London’s Metropolitan Police in July 2025. In February 2026, the ex-Arsenal midfielder was charged with two additional counts of sexual abuse, which he also denied in April.
Fan Reactions
Football fans have reacted strongly to the Canadian government's decision. @OginiSolomon said: "Hosting the world cup in these North American locations that doesn’t value the sport is just absurd." @Zanderkesh wrote: "This is a complete and absolute disgrace. How can a country be allowed to host a World Cup if they are going to deny key players entry? FIFA cannot just wash their hands of this and hide behind government rules. If you cannot welcome the world, you should not be hosting the world. Simple as that." @Jonathnatwizuka added: "We just want to support our teams and celebrate the beautiful game without barriers. Why host the 2026 World Cup in countries with so many restrictions? This doesn’t look like we are going to enjoy the game if some players are denied entry."
In related news, the US government issued a warning to foreign social media influencers against earning money through online content while on tourist visas, citing possible deportation for violating visa regulations.
