2026 World Cup: Ghana Sports Minister calls on FIFA to intervene in Thomas Partey visa denial ahead of Panama opener

Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has called on FIFA to step in over the decision by Canadian authorities to deny a visa to Black Stars deputy captain Thomas Partey ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Ghana are set to begin their Group L campaign against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, at BMO Field in Toronto, but Partey’s availability has been thrown into doubt after immigration officials reportedly blocked his entry into Canada, citing ongoing rape charges against the 33-year-old midfielder.

Partey, a former Arsenal player, has not been convicted, with legal proceedings still ongoing in relation to the allegations.

Speaking in an interview with TV3, the Sports Minister argued that FIFA must take an active and public stance on the matter, insisting that the issue goes beyond bilateral relations between Ghana and Canada.

“Not just the authorities in Canada that must put their foot down to get things right, even FIFA itself needs to speak up. FIFA cannot pretend that they have no role to play in matters like this, and their role should not just end behind the scenes only. They must speak out publicly for people to know that they are against such a decision."

Adams added that similar travel complications had previously affected the player in the United States, but said visas were later restored when authorities confirmed his participation in an international tournament.

“The Americans previously before the tournament withdrew his five-year visa. Understanding that Thomas Partey was not entering on his own but because they had decided to host an international competition, they reissued him the visa to enable him to partake in the competition,” he explained.

He expressed surprise at Canada’s decision, describing it as unacceptable for a World Cup host nation.

“One is therefore surprised that Canada will choose to do what they have done. This is extreme, this is abominable, and must not be allowed to stay,” the Minister added.

Meanwhile, court proceedings linked to the case are expected to be heard in a Canadian Federal Court, with the matter set to proceed in absentia.

Ghana’s squad has already arrived in Toronto and will hold a mandatory training session ahead of their opening match.

After facing Panama, the Black Stars will take on England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before concluding their group fixtures against Croatia on June 27, as they target a first knockout-stage appearance since 2010.