Ultimately denied entry on charges including rape... Ghana party's World Cup opener confirmed absent

*This content was translated by AI.

Thomas Partey (33, Villarreal), a Ghana national team midfielder facing trial on charges including rape and sexual assault, will miss the first match of the World Cup after failing to obtain a Canadian visa.

The International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) stated in a statement on the 13th (Korea time) that "Partey's visa application was denied by the Canadian government," adding, "FIFA does not intervene in the host country's immigration procedures, including visa screening. The issuance of visas and entry permissions are matters decided by the host country's government."

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated, "Regulations are applied consistently without exception regardless of nationality, personal status, or participation in the World Cup, and entry may be denied if deemed a threat to security," while noting, "We are working to maintain the safety and security of Canadian citizens and ensure the successful hosting of the tournament."

Partey, who was unable to secure a Canadian visa, will ultimately be unable to participate in the 2026 FIFA North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup group stage opener against Panama scheduled for the 18th in Toronto, Canada. It has been reported that Partey has already returned to the Ghana national team's base camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island, USA, instead of traveling to Canada.

However, since the group stage matches against England and Croatia are both scheduled to be held in the United States, Partey is expected to be able to participate in the remaining two group stage matches, excluding the Panama game.

Partey was previously charged with rape and other offenses while playing for Arsenal in the English Premier League (EPL) and is set to face trial in London, UK, this November. The charges include seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, with four women claiming to be victims. Partey has denied all allegations in full.

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*This content was translated by AI.