The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has taken note of public discussions following the decision of the Federal Court of Canada concerning Black Stars player Thomas Partey’s visa application to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As the governing body responsible for Ghana’s participation in the FIFA World Cup, the GFA had a duty to support and facilitate visa applications for all accredited members of the Ghana delegation. In carrying out this responsibility, the Association worked closely with the player, his legal representatives, FIFA, and the relevant Canadian authorities throughout the process.
The GFA wishes to clarify that the Federal Court’s decision was based on immigration admissibility considerations arising from the criminal charges currently pending against the player in the United Kingdom. The Court did not make any finding of fault, negligence, misconduct, or incompetence against the Ghana Football Association.
We further note that public commentary surrounding correspondence submitted by the GFA has, in some instances, mischaracterized the role of the Association in the visa process. The letter currently circulating in the public domain formed part of an ongoing immigration process and was submitted in response to requests for additional information. Such correspondence is a routine and expected aspect of visa applications.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Court’s decision was not based on any alleged failure by the Ghana Football Association to disclose information. Throughout the process, requests for information and supporting documentation were responded to and submitted to the relevant authorities. The Court’s ruling ultimately concerned admissibility issues connected to the pending criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom.
While the Association is naturally disappointed that Thomas Partey was unable to join the Black Stars for this stage of the FIFA World Cup, we fully respect the sovereign authority of Canada and its institutions to administer and enforce their immigration laws.
The GFA remains satisfied that it acted diligently, professionally, and in good faith at all times in support of the player and the national team. Our focus remains firmly on supporting the Black Stars as they continue their FIFA World Cup campaign and on ensuring that the team receives the highest level of administrative and operational support.
We thank Ghanaians and football supporters worldwide for their continued support of the national team.
SIGNED
GHANA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
