Ghana's government slam 'unfair decision' after Thomas Partey denied entry to Canada before World Cup match

Ghana’s government has called the decision to deny Thomas Partey entry into Canada “extremely unfair”.

On Friday (June 12), Partey was prevented from entering World Cup co-host Canada and will miss the African nation’s opening World Cup match against Panama in Toronto on June 18.

The former Arsenal and current Villarreal midfielder is due to stand trial next year after pleading not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations made by four women between 2020 and 2022.

In a statement, FIFA confirmed that the 33-year-old would be unable to travel from Ghana’s training base in Boston, Massachusetts after having his visa application refused by the Canadian government.

“FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas,” FIFA said.

“The host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.”

Meanwhile, Canadian government guidance states: “If you have committed or been convicted of a crime, you may not be allowed into Canada.”

Partey has denied wrongdoing, pleading not guilty to all charges brought against him, and has not been convicted of a crime.

On Saturday, Ghana’s government issued a statement of its own, branding the treatment of Partey as “extremely unfair” and confirming it had lodged an official note of protest requesting that Canada review its decision.

“The Government of the Republic of Ghana expresses strong reservations following the high-handed and extremely unfair decision by Canada,” it said.

“While respecting Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, Ghana considers that reliance on unproven charges in the absence of a judicial determination raises fundamental questions of fairness and proportionality.”

Why was Partey allowed into the US but not Canada?

The reason Partey was allowed to enter the US relates to the fact that he has not been convicted of a crime, with a US Customs and Border Protection official explaining:

“The US is aware of the pending court case involving Mr Partey. However, at this time, he has not been convicted of a crime and was admitted to the United States after being issued a visa.

“Admissibility determinations are made on a case-by-case basis using law enforcement, national security and immigration information available at the time of inspection.

“CBP officers have the authority to question travellers, conduct inspections and determine admissibility consistent with US law. CBP defers to Canada for questions regarding his denial of entry.”

Meanwhile, in a statement to BBC Sport, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada added:

“Canada is proud to be a host country for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is working to facilitate a successful event while maintaining the safety and security of Canadians.

“Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws.

“Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies.”