Ghanaian Midfielder’s World Cup Bid Denied Over UK Charges
A Federal Court judge is set to hear an injunction application on Tuesday concerning Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey. His attempt to enter Canada for the World Cup has been blocked due to rape and sexual assault charges he faces in England.
The hearing, scheduled for 9 a.m. ET, will focus on Partey’s request to reverse the decision that prevents his entry into Canada. The 32-year-old midfielder is currently in the United States after his application to enter Canada for Ghana’s opening match against Panama in Toronto was refused.
Government Protests Canada’s Decision
The government of Ghana has characterized the decision as “extremely unfair” and has pledged to pursue legal avenues to overturn it. Partey is awaiting trial on multiple counts of rape involving two complainants, as well as one count of sexual assault involving another individual. His legal representative indicated in March that Partey intends to plead not guilty to two additional rape charges.
Despite the Canadian entry denial, Partey was permitted to travel to the United States for Ghana’s training camp and upcoming World Cup matches scheduled in Boston and Philadelphia.
Fairness and Immigration Law Debated
Ghana’s government stated its respect for Canada’s immigration laws but questioned the fairness and proportionality of relying on unproven allegations prior to a judicial determination.
In response to the situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ghana issued an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada following the denial of Partey’s application.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada affirmed that the hosting of major international events does not alter the nation’s immigration laws. The department emphasized that decisions are made on an individual basis, stating, “Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies.”
Player’s Background and Coach’s Support
Partey previously played for Arsenal in the English Premier League from 2020 to 2025 before transferring to Spanish club Villarreal. Ghana’s coach, Carlos Queiroz, included Partey in the World Cup squad, citing the principle of the presumption of innocence.
