Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has reportedly been denied entry into Canada and will be unavailable for the Black Stars' opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a report by The Athletic.
The report states that Partey will play no part in Ghana's first Group Stage fixture against Panama at Toronto's BMO Field on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
"Thomas Partey will play no part in Ghana's first World Cup game in Toronto as he has been denied entry to Canada," The Athletic reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.
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According to the publication, sources who are not authorised to discuss the matter publicly indicated that the former Arsenal midfielder is unable to travel to Canada and, as a result, will be unavailable for selection.
"Ghana are set to open their tournament at Toronto's BMO Field against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, but sources familiar with the process, who are not authorised to discuss it publicly, have told The Athletic that Partey cannot travel to Canada and therefore will not be able to feature," the report added.
The development is believed to be linked to Canada's immigration rules. The Canadian government's website states that "if you have committed or been convicted of a crime, you may not be allowed into Canada."
Partey has been charged in the United Kingdom but is awaiting trial and has not been convicted of any offence. He has consistently denied the allegations against him.
Neither the Ghana Football Association (GFA) nor the player's representatives had publicly commented on the report at the time of filing this story.
Thomas Partey will play no part in Ghana’s first World Cup game in Toronto as he has been denied entry to Canada, sources have told The Athletic.
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) June 12, 2026
Ghana are set to open their tournament at Toronto’s BMO Field against Panama on Wednesday, June 17 but sources familiar with the… pic.twitter.com/ZldEdo2CEM
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