World Cup 2026: Kofi Adams vows Ghana will not abandon Thomas Partey amid visa dispute

Ghana’s Sports Minister Kofi Adams has reaffirmed the government’s support for Thomas Partey after the midfielder was denied a visa to enter Canada for the Black Stars’ opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking amid growing concern over the situation, Adams stressed that Ghana remains committed to helping the former Arsenal midfielder and that efforts are ongoing to seek a resolution through diplomatic channels.

“We won’t abandon Thomas Partey at this moment. All diplomatic channels are being used to make sure this matter is dealt with,” Adams told 3news.

The issue emerged after Canadian authorities refused Partey’s visa application, ruling him out of Ghana’s Group L opener against Panama in Toronto. FIFA later confirmed that the 33-year-old would be unable to travel from Ghana’s training base in the United States to Canada for the fixture, while emphasizing that immigration decisions remain the responsibility of host governments.

According to Ghanaian media reports, Adams and the government have already engaged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant authorities in an attempt to have the decision reviewed. The minister has argued that Partey has not been convicted of any offence and should not be treated as guilty before the legal process is completed. Ghana has also taken the visa matter to court in Canada as reported by Africasoccer.com

The visa refusal represents a significant setback for Ghana ahead of their World Cup campaign. Partey remains one of the most experienced members of the squad and was expected to play a key role in midfield as the Black Stars seek to progress from a difficult group that also includes England and Croatia.

Despite missing the Panama match, Partey remains with the Ghana squad in the United States and is currently eligible to feature in the team’s subsequent group-stage matches against England in Boston and Croatia in Philadelphia, as those fixtures do not require entry into Canada.

The case has generated widespread debate in Ghana, with many supporters hoping the matter can be resolved quickly. However, FIFA has reiterated that it has no authority over immigration decisions made by host nations during the tournament.

For now, Ghana’s focus remains on their opening World Cup fixture, while Adams and government officials continue their efforts behind the scenes. His latest comments send a clear message that the Black Stars and the Ghanaian government intend to stand by one of their most influential players during a challenging period.