Canada Denies Partey Entry, Ghana Demands Answers from FIFA

The Ghanaian government has expressed strong dissatisfaction following the decision by Canadian authorities to deny a visa to Ghana midfielder and former Arsenal star Thomas Partey, ruling him out of the Black Stars' opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Panama.

Partey, one of Ghana's most experienced players, will be unable to travel from the team's training base in Boston, United States, to Toronto, Canada, where Ghana is scheduled to face Panama in its first Group L fixture. FIFA confirmed that the player's visa application had been rejected by the Canadian government.

In response, Ghanaian officials have reportedly called for a review of the decision, arguing that the absence of a key player could have a significant impact on the country's World Cup campaign. The development has sparked debate over the balance between national immigration policies and the global nature of international sporting events.

However, FIFA has made it clear that it has no authority over immigration decisions made by host nations. The world football governing body stated that visa approvals and entry permissions remain the sole responsibility of the host country's government.

Canadian immigration authorities defended their position, emphasizing that hosting a major sporting event such as the FIFA World Cup does not alter the country's immigration laws. Officials stated that every application is assessed individually in accordance with Canadian law.

Despite missing the match against Panama, Partey remains eligible to participate in Ghana's subsequent World Cup fixtures against England and Croatia, both of which will be played in the United States.

The controversy has added an unexpected challenge for Ghana as the Black Stars prepare to begin their World Cup journey, while FIFA continues to maintain that immigration matters remain outside its jurisdiction.