Canada denies entry to Thomas Partey due to pending legal proceedings in the United Kingdom

Canadian authorities denied entry to Ghanaian footballer Thomas Partey into their territory due to the ongoing legal proceedings he is facing in the United Kingdom regarding multiple allegations of rape and sexual assault.

Partey, who is part of the Ghana national team for the 2026 World Cup, remains free on bail while awaiting trial on seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault reported by four women. Although the player has pleaded not guilty to all charges, the Canadian government decided not to grant him entry authorization, citing its immigration rules regarding individuals linked to serious crimes.

FIFA confirmed that it does not intervene in the immigration decisions of host countries and reiterated that it is up to each government to determine who can enter its territory. Unlike Canada, the United States did grant a visa to the footballer, allowing him to participate in Ghana’s matches scheduled in U.S. cities during the tournament.

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The refusal makes Partey one of the first World Cup participants to face entry restrictions for legal reasons. Despite the controversy, Ghana’s head coach, Carlos Queiroz, has maintained his support for the midfielder, arguing that it is not his place to pass judgment on a case that is still pending judicial resolution.

The trial against the player is scheduled to be held in London next year, after it was postponed. In the meantime, Partey must continue to comply with the conditions imposed by the British authorities, including the obligation to report any travel abroad.