Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt a major blow after FIFA confirmed that midfielder Thomas Partey will be unavailable for the Black Stars’ opening Group Stage match against Panama due to a visa refusal by the Canadian government.
In an official statement, FIFA revealed that Partey, who has been training with the Ghana squad at their Team Base Camp in Boston, USA, will not be permitted to travel to Canada for the match scheduled for Wednesday, June 17.
“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 statement read.
The world football governing body stressed that immigration decisions remain solely within the jurisdiction of host nations and that FIFA has no authority to influence or overturn such rulings.
“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,” FIFA added.
Partey’s absence represents a significant setback for Ghana ahead of what is expected to be a crucial opening fixture. The experienced midfielder has long been a cornerstone of the Black Stars, providing leadership, defensive stability, and composure in midfield. His experience on the international stage was expected to play a vital role in Ghana’s quest to advance from the group stage.
The development now leaves Ghana’s technical team with the challenge of reshuffling their midfield plans as they prepare to take on Panama in a match that could have a major impact on the country’s World Cup ambitions.
Despite the disappointment, the Black Stars remain focused on their campaign, with fans across Ghana hoping the team can overcome the setback and make a positive start to their journey at football’s biggest tournament.
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.
