NSA boss defends Thomas Partey amid world cup visa row

The Director-General of the National Sports Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has called on Ghanaians to rally behind Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey following reports that the player was denied entry into Canada for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking on the development, Ampofo Ankrah described the situation as unfortunate and said it was distracting attention from the football spectacle that the tournament is meant to provide.

"The World Cup has kicked off and we should be talking about great goals, great play and on-the-field decisions. Instead, the conversation is being dominated by non-football matters," he said.

The NSA boss noted that the tournament, which has expanded to 48 nations for the first time, should be a celebration of football and not be overshadowed by controversies unrelated to events on the pitch.

He questioned the basis for denying Partey entry, insisting that the midfielder has not been found guilty of any offence.

"I have not seen, heard or read that Thomas Partey has been sentenced or found guilty of any of the charges against him. It is quite bizarre and unfortunate," Ampofo Ankrah stated.

According to him, athletes should not be judged based on media narratives or public speculation, especially when no court ruling has established wrongdoing.

"We shouldn't get carried away with media sensationalism and the negativity that may surround anybody as a player. It is unfair. His crime, I ask again, he has not been found guilty of any crime," he added.

Ampofo Ankrah further expressed concern that the issue follows another controversy involving an African referee who was reportedly denied access to the tournament, warning that such incidents could shift attention away from football throughout the competition.

"We could be in for a very uncomfortable World Cup where the conversations and headlines will be away from the pitch. That's not good for the game," he said.

Thomas Partey denied Canada visa ahead of Ghana vs Panama game

The NSA Director-General urged Ghanaians to stand by Partey during the difficult period.

"Thomas Partey is a Ghanaian. He is a citizen. He has paid his dues and continues to do so.

“This will be his last World Cup. We should support Thomas Partey until he is proven otherwise. It is very unfortunate," he concluded.

PAH/JE

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