Thomas Partey has lost his legal bid to overturn a Canadian visa denial, dealing a significant blow to Ghana’s preparations for their opening match at the FIFA World Cup.
The Black Stars midfielder’s lawyers appeared before the Federal Court in Ottawa as part of proceedings seeking a judicial review of the decision to deny him entry into Canada. The application, filed on June 15, 2026, under case number IMM-12882-26, challenged the refusal ahead of Ghana’s Group L clash against Panama.
During the hearing, Partey’s legal team argued that their client had pleaded not guilty to rape allegations in the United Kingdom and emphasized that the matter remains before the courts. They further maintained that the Arsenal midfielder is not subject to any travel restrictions, noting that his passport has not been seized and that he had previously been allowed entry into the United States.
However, the court declined to admit additional affidavits submitted late by Partey’s UK-based lawyers, with the presiding judge ruling that it was improper to rely on such materials at that stage of proceedings.
Counsel representing Canadian immigration authorities argued that a criminal conviction is not required under Canadian law to justify the denial of a visa. Although the judge questioned whether there was precedent for such a position, the court ultimately sided with the immigration authorities.
In a ruling delivered after hearing arguments from both sides, the judge dismissed Partey’s application, effectively upholding the visa refusal.
The decision casts doubt over Partey’s availability for Ghana’s opening World Cup fixture against Panama, scheduled to be played in Canada, and raises fresh concerns for the Black Stars as they seek a strong start to their campaign.
