FIFA Statement on Canada’s Decision to Block Thomas Partey from Ghana’s World Cup Opener

FIFA has released an official statement after Thomas Partey was ruled out of Ghana’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The experienced midfielder will be unavailable for the Black Stars’ Group L clash against Panama in Toronto after Canadian authorities reportedly rejected his visa application.

In a statement first reported by The Athletic, FIFA confirmed that Partey would not be able to travel from Ghana’s team base in the United States to Canada for the fixture and stressed that it had no involvement in the visa decision.

“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 the Canadian government has refused his visa application.

“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 decision means the 32-year-old midfielder will miss Ghana’s Group L clash against Panama in Toronto on 17 June