Thomas Partey will miss Ghana’s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, after his visa application to enter Canada was refused, FIFA has confirmed.

In a statement to The Athletic, football’s global governing body clarified that the midfielder will be unable to travel from Ghana’s base camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for the Group L fixture scheduled for Wednesday.

“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 said.

FIFA further emphasised that it has no involvement in immigration decisions taken by host nations, stating that visa approvals remain entirely under the authority of the respective governments.

BREAKING: Thomas Partey denied Canada visa ahead of Ghana vs Panama game

“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,” it added.

The development is a major setback for Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz, who had included the experienced midfielder in his plans for the tournament.

Partey’s absence leaves a significant gap in Ghana’s midfield options ahead of a crucial opening fixture, with the Black Stars now forced to adjust their approach against Panama.

Ghana are competing in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, and were counting on the midfielder’s experience and control in high-pressure matches.



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