FIFA Issues Statement after Thomas Partey Denied Entry Into Canada

The FIFA has confirmed that Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss the team’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into Canada.

Partey will now be unavailable for Ghana’s Group stage opener against Panama after his visa application was rejected by Canadian authorities.

In an official statement, FIFA said, "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 governing body further clarified that it has no role in immigration or visa decisions, adding that host nations retain full authority over entry permissions for players and officials.

“FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas,” the statement added. “As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.”

Partey’s absence is a major setback for Ghana ahead of their opening fixture in North America, with the midfielder expected to remain at the team’s base in Boston.

The situation highlights ongoing logistical and administrative challenges surrounding the expanded 2026 World Cup, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.