By Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | June 11, 2026
Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, says he is unaware of any visa or entry challenges facing Black Stars vice-captain Thomas Partey ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches scheduled to be played in Canada.
The minister’s comments come amid growing speculation on social media regarding whether the midfielder could face travel difficulties for World Cup fixtures hosted in Toronto and Vancouver.
Speaking on the matter, Adams said the Ministry of Sports had not received any official communication from Canadian authorities, FIFA, or the Ghana Football Association indicating that Partey would be denied entry into Canada.
According to the minister, preparations for Ghana’s participation in the tournament are continuing as planned, and there is currently no verified information suggesting that the experienced midfielder faces immigration-related obstacles.
Growing Attention Around World Cup Travel Requirements
The issue has attracted public attention as countries hosting the FIFA World Cup continue implementing standard immigration and security procedures for players, officials, media personnel, and supporters travelling to the tournament.
Canadian authorities have repeatedly stated that there is no special FIFA visa and that all visitors must satisfy regular immigration requirements before being granted entry into the country. Having a World Cup ticket or tournament accreditation does not automatically guarantee admission.
The Canadian government has also encouraged visitors to submit applications early and ensure they meet all entry requirements before travelling.
Government Dismisses Speculation
Adams’ remarks mirror previous efforts by the Sports Ministry to counter misinformation surrounding World Cup travel arrangements.
Last month, the minister dismissed reports claiming that large numbers of Ghanaian supporters had already been denied visas for the tournament, explaining that many of the organized fan groups being coordinated by the ministry had not yet completed their visa interview processes.
He urged the public and sections of the media to rely on verified information rather than speculation, particularly as excitement builds ahead of Ghana’s World Cup campaign.
Focus Remains on Ghana’s World Cup Campaign
For now, Ghana’s attention remains focused on preparations for the tournament, where the Black Stars will be aiming to make a strong impression on football’s biggest stage.
Partey remains one of the most experienced members of the squad and is expected to play a key role in Ghana’s midfield as the team pursues qualification from the group stage.
Unless official information emerges from Canadian immigration authorities, FIFA, or the Ghana Football Association, government officials say there is no basis to conclude that the player will encounter entry difficulties for matches scheduled in Canada.
