Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his country's opening World Cup match after Canada refused his visa application, the governing body of world football, FIFA, announced Friday. The 32-year-old is currently awaiting trial in the United Kingdom on multiple charges of rape.

Partey’s inability to enter Canada means he cannot participate in Ghana's first game of the tournament, scheduled for Wednesday against Panama in Toronto. FIFA confirmed that the player would not be able to travel from the team's base camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island, for the match.

FIFA stated that it is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including visa adjudications. The organization emphasized that the decision rests with the host government, which ultimately determines who is admitted into the country. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) affirmed that all individuals seeking entry are assessed individually based on available facts and applicable law.

IRCC reiterated Canada's commitment to hosting a successful 2026 FIFA World Cup while upholding the safety and security of Canadians, noting that hosting major events does not alter Canada's immigration laws. Partey, who plays in Spain for Villarreal, has pleaded not guilty to the allegations, which date back to his time with English club Arsenal between 2020 and 2025. His trial is scheduled for November or later.

Following the visa denial, Partey has returned to Ghana's base camp in Rhode Island. He is expected to be available for Ghana's subsequent matches, including their game against England on June 23 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and their final group stage match against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.

This situation highlights the complex intersection of international sports events and national immigration policies. While host countries aim to facilitate major tournaments, they maintain their sovereign right to enforce immigration laws, particularly in cases involving serious criminal charges.

Ghana is making its fifth appearance in the last six World Cups. The team's campaign begins without a key player due to these unprecedented circumstances. The focus now shifts to how the team will adapt to Partey's absence for their crucial opening fixture against Panama.

Another World Cup player, Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi, is also facing legal proceedings, awaiting trial on similar charges in Paris. This adds to the scrutiny surrounding players with pending legal cases participating in major international sporting events.