Ghana deputy captain Thomas Partey is continuing his efforts to gain entry into Canada ahead of the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama on Wednesday, June 17.
According to reports, the Ghanaian midfielder is scheduled to appear before a Canadian Federal Court on Tuesday, June 16, with a hearing set for 9:00 a.m. ET (2:00 p.m. GMT).
Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams confirmed that Partey will challenge the decision that denied him entry into Canada.
Adams said he remains hopeful that the ruling will be overturned, allowing the Black Stars vice-captain to join the team before Ghana’s World Cup opener.
Partey is expected to attend the hearing with support from the Government of Ghana through its embassy in Canada as he seeks to reverse the decision that has kept him out of the Black Stars camp in Toronto.
The former Arsenal midfielder was disappointed after Canadian authorities reportedly used provisions in the country’s immigration laws to deny his entry because of ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom.
Partey has been charged with seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in the UK. The allegations involve four women and relate to incidents said to have taken place between 2020 and 2022.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and strongly denies the allegations.
A trial is expected to take place later in 2026.
It is important to note that these are criminal charges and not convictions. Under UK law, Partey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Because of the visa decision, Partey was not part of the Ghana squad that arrived in Toronto on Monday to complete preparations for Wednesday’s Group L match against Panama at BMO Field.
If the court rules in his favour, the 32-year-old could join the Black Stars later on Tuesday and become available for selection against Panama.
If the application is unsuccessful, Partey is still expected to be available for Ghana’s remaining group-stage matches against England and Croatia in the United States.
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