Canada’s Immigration Minister Lena Diab has defended the decision to reject a visa application from Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, a decision that will keep him out of the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 World Cup in Canada.
Partey, who previously played for Arsenal, is waiting to stand trial in London after pleading not guilty to several rape charges. He has not been convicted of any offence.
Ghana are scheduled to play Panama on Wednesday, June 17, at BMO Field in Toronto, but Canadian authorities have confirmed that the 32-year-old will not be allowed to enter the country for the match.
In a statement released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Diab said Canada is committed to hosting a successful World Cup while still following its immigration laws.
“Canada is proud to be a host country for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is working to facilitate a successful event while maintaining the safety and security of Canadians,” Lena Diab said in a statement from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
“Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws.
“Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies.”
Despite the setback, Partey is still expected to be available for Ghana’s remaining Group L matches, which will both be played in the United States against England on June 23 in Boston and Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
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