Canadian Court Upholds Visa Denial for Ghana’s Thomas Partey Amid Legal Proceedings
In a significant decision, a Canadian federal judge has declined Ghana’s request to allow Thomas Partey entry into Canada for the World Cup, citing ongoing legal issues. As a result, Partey, who is currently in the United States, will miss Ghana’s match against Panama in Toronto but is set to join future games scheduled in the U.S.
The midfielder’s visa application was previously refused, prompting Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to label the rejection as “high-handed and extremely unfair.” Despite the appeal heard on Tuesday, the decision was upheld, keeping Partey out of Canada for the time being.
Partey is facing serious allegations in Britain, involving multiple counts of rape and sexual assault, with incidents reportedly occurring during his tenure with Arsenal from 2020 to 2025. He has consistently maintained his innocence. In March, his legal representative confirmed Partey’s intention to plead not guilty to additional charges related to an alleged incident in December 2020. These new accusations emerged after an earlier set of charges was made public.
The argument in court by Partey’s lawyer, Mackeda Bramwell, emphasized Canada’s role as a World Cup host nation, suggesting a “public interest” in permitting accredited athletes to participate. Part of Partey’s defense involved a commitment to remain under team supervision and to depart Canada with the team.
In his statement, Partey expressed the hope of his fellow Ghanaians, stating, “Millions of my countrymen are hoping the team advances to the knockout round.” He reiterated his status, saying, “I have not been convicted of any offense. I have pleaded not guilty, and I remain presumed innocent.”
Canadian authorities clarified that immigration decisions are processed individually, irrespective of World Cup considerations. Ghana forward Brandon Thomas-Asante commented on the situation, acknowledging Partey’s skill and the need for the team to adapt, noting, “He’s a tremendous player, everyone knows his ability, and it’s an unfortunate situation.”
Ghana’s coach, Carlos Queiroz, refrained from discussing the court’s decision but assured that the team would be prepared for upcoming matches. Ghana’s World Cup base is established in Smithfield, Rhode Island, with future games against England and Croatia scheduled in Massachusetts and Philadelphia, respectively. Midfielder Kwasi Sibo emphasized the team’s solidarity, stating, “As a team, as a family, we are going to give everything for him to be happy and be proud of us.”
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