Presumption of innocence must apply – Ghana demands fairness over Partey's World Cup exclusion
The Ministry for Sports and Recreation (MOSR) has confirmed that Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey will be unable to participate in Ghana's opening FIFA World Cup match in Canada following a visa decision by the Canadian authorities, as the Government calls on FIFA to take a more active interest in the matter.
In a statement issued on Saturday, June 13, 2026, the Ministry expressed concern over reports that the Villarreal midfielder had been denied entry into Canada, where Ghana will face Panama in their Group L opener on 17th June.
Government stands with Partey
The Ministry stated that Thomas Partey has, over the years, served Ghana with distinction, commitment and professionalism. At this difficult moment, the Government of Ghana, the Ministry, the Ghana Football Association, his teammates and millions of Ghanaians stand firmly with him.
"Like every individual, Thomas is entitled to the fundamental principle of presumption of innocence, which remains a cornerstone of justice systems across the world," the statement read.
Call for FIFA intervention
While the Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, continues its engagement on the diplomatic aspects of this matter, the Ministry for Sports and Recreation said it is particularly concerned about the implications for international sport.
"Where a player remains eligible under FIFA regulations and available for national team selection, every effort should be made to ensure that sporting considerations are addressed in a manner that preserves fairness, equal opportunity and the integrity of competition for all participating nations," the statement said.
The Ministry called on FIFA to take a more active interest in this matter and to engage host nations on safeguards that protect the rights of accredited players, officials and member associations.
"FIFA's commitment to fairness must extend beyond the field of play to ensure that all qualified teams have access to their eligible players. As football's global governing body, FIFA must continue to champion principles that uphold competitive integrity, equal participation and fair representation throughout its competitions," the statement added.
Integrity of the tournament
The Ministry noted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a celebration of global unity through sport. It is therefore important that all participating nations are afforded a fair opportunity to compete with their eligible players and officials.
"The integrity of the tournament depends not only on what happens on the pitch, but also on ensuring that the rules and principles governing participation are applied consistently and fairly," the statement read.
Rally behind the Black Stars
As a nation, the Ministry said Ghana remains proud of Thomas Partey's contribution to Ghana football and unwavering in its support for the Black Stars.
"We urge all Ghanaians to rally behind the team as they begin their FIFA World Cup campaign, confident that our collective spirit, resilience and patriotism will continue to inspire success on the global stage," the statement concluded.
Background
Partey, who faces trial in London on multiple charges of rape and sexual assault to which he has pleaded not guilty, was included in Carlos Queiroz's 26-man World Cup squad. Under the conditions of his bail, he must notify authorities of any plans to travel abroad. US federal law also requires him to declare his legal status upon entry into the country.
Ghana will open their Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17 without the influential midfielder, who has 57 caps for the Black Stars. The team will then face England on June 23 in Boston and Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia.
The statement was signed by Honourable Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister for Sports and Recreation of the Republic of Ghana. It remains unclear whether Partey will be available for Ghana's subsequent matches against England and Croatia, which will be played in the United States rather than Canada. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is understood to be continuing diplomatic engagements on the matter.
