Judge Denies Entry to Ghanaian Midfielder for World Cup Opener
OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) — Ghana’s efforts to secure entry for midfielder Thomas Partey into Canada for their initial World Cup match have been turned down by a Canadian federal judge. Partey is currently awaiting trial on rape charges.
With the ruling, Partey, whose visa request was previously rejected, will remain in the United States as Ghana’s team competes against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday. However, he remains eligible for Ghana’s subsequent matches, both scheduled in the U.S.
Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeled the visa denial as “high-handed and extremely unfair.” The appeal was addressed in court earlier on Tuesday.
Allegations against Partey in Britain involve several women during his tenure with Arsenal from 2020-25. The midfielder, who recently played for Villarreal in Spain, has denied the charges.
In March, Partey’s lawyer stated his intention to plead not guilty to additional rape charges following accusations by a woman regarding incidents from December 2020. These new charges emerged after public awareness of earlier accusations involving other women.
Partey’s legal representative, Mackeda Bramwell, argued that as a World Cup host, Canada should facilitate participation for accredited athletes, emphasizing the public interest.
Partey reassured the court that he would remain under team officials’ supervision and depart Canada with the team, expressing hope for Ghana’s advancement in the tournament.
“I have not been convicted of any offense. I have pleaded not guilty, and I remain presumed innocent,” Partey affirmed.
Canadian authorities have reiterated that immigration decisions are independent of the World Cup.
Ghana forward Brandon Thomas-Asante acknowledged Partey’s significance, stating, “He’s a tremendous player, everyone knows his ability, and it’s an unfortunate situation. I think we just, as players, we have to adapt.”
Ghana’s coach, Carlos Queiroz, expressed readiness for the match but refrained from commenting on the legal appeal.
Ghana is based in Smithfield, Rhode Island, for the World Cup, with Partey eligible to play against England in Massachusetts on June 23 and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.
“As a team, as a family, we are going to give everything for him to be happy and be proud of us,” commented midfielder Kwasi Sibo.
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