Ghana’s preparations for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a significant setback following confirmation that midfielder Thomas Partey will be unable to travel to Canada for the Black Stars’ first fixture against Panama.
In an official statement, FIFA confirmed that Partey’s visa application to enter Canada was rejected by the Canadian government, preventing the experienced midfielder from joining his teammates for the crucial Group Stage encounter scheduled for Wednesday, June 17.
The player had been based with the Ghana squad at their Team Base Camp in Boston, USA, but will now miss the journey across the border to Canada, where Ghana is set to begin its World Cup campaign.
FIFA emphasized that it has no authority over the immigration decisions of host nations and cannot intervene in visa-related matters.
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,” the world football governing body stated.
FIFA further clarified that visa approvals remain the responsibility of host governments, adding: “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.”
The absence of Partey is a major blow for Ghana. The midfield general has been one of the team’s most influential players, providing leadership, experience, and composure in the center of the park. His ability to dictate play and protect the backline has made him a key figure for the Black Stars over the years.
With Ghana preparing to face Panama in a match that could have a significant impact on their chances of progressing from the group stage, attention will now turn to the team’s coaching staff as they seek alternative solutions to fill the void left by the former captain.
Despite the setback, Ghana remains determined to make a strong start to its World Cup journey, with supporters across the country hoping the Black Stars can overcome the challenge and deliver a positive result on the global stage.
By Achore Richard
Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of The Accra Daily Mail, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
