Ghana international Thomas Partey is set to appear before a Canadian Federal Court on Tuesday in an attempt to overturn a visa refusal that has blocked his participation with the Black Stars ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.
The former Arsenal midfielder was denied entry into Canada last week due to ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where he is facing multiple rape charges and one count of assault. He has denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty.
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The hearing, scheduled for 13:00 GMT, will determine whether Thomas Partey can successfully challenge the Canadian authorities’ decision and gain permission to enter the country to join Ghana’s squad in Toronto.
Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has confirmed that the player will formally contest the ruling, expressing hope that the court may rule in his favour.
If the appeal is successful, Partey is expected to travel immediately to Canada and link up with the Black Stars ahead of their Group L opener against Panama at BMO Field.
The Government of Ghana, through its embassy in Canada, is reportedly supporting efforts to secure his entry, as the midfielder is considered a key figure in the national team’s World Cup plans.
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Thomas Partey’s absence was evident when the Ghana squad arrived in Toronto on Monday for final preparations. His experience is viewed as an important asset as the four-time African champions aim to progress beyond the group stage.
Thomas Partey is currently facing seven counts of rape and one count of assault involving allegations from four women, said to relate to incidents between 2020 and 2022. A trial is expected later this year, with Partey continuing to deny all charges.
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Ghana will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium, followed by a final Group L fixture against Croatia on June 27 as they compete for a place in the knockout stage.