2026 World Cup: Thomas Partey granted Canadian visa after court intervention

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has been granted a visa to enter Canada after an Ottawa court overturned an earlier decision denying him entry ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The ruling on Tuesday, June 16, comes after days of uncertainty surrounding the Black Stars’ key player, whose participation in the tournament had been in doubt due to the initial refusal by Canadian immigration authorities.

Partey’s visa was earlier rejected by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), citing ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom where the player faces multiple rape charges.

He has denied the allegations and has not been convicted of any offence.

An Ottawa court, however, reviewed the decision and reversed the denial, clearing the former Arsenal midfielder to join the Ghana squad ahead of their opening Group L fixture against Panama on Wednesday.

The development offers major relief to the Black Stars, who had already begun preparations in Toronto without clarity on whether one of their most influential players would be available.

Ghana’s government had mounted diplomatic efforts to resolve the impasse, with Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa earlier assuring that all available channels were being explored.