Troubled 2026 World Cup faces fresh condemnation after Thomas Partey visa decision

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been hit by another wave of criticism after Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was denied a visa to enter Canada, adding to a growing list of off-field controversies that have overshadowed the tournament before and during its opening week.

FIFA confirmed that Partey will miss Ghana's Group L opener against Panama after the Canadian government refused his visa application, leaving the Black Stars without one of their senior players for a match regarded as crucial to their qualification hopes.

The decision has triggered widespread debate, with many Ghanaian supporters describing it as unfair and arguing that the midfielder is effectively being punished before the conclusion of his criminal trial in the United Kingdom. Partey has been charged with multiple counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, allegations he has denied through his legal representatives.

The visa controversy is the latest in a series of incidents that have drawn criticism of the expanded tournament.

Earlier this month, Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States despite being appointed to officiate at the World Cup. FIFA later confirmed it was unable to overturn the decision because immigration matters remain the responsibility of national governments. Artan has since been appointed to referee the UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa.

Iranian football officials also encountered visa difficulties, with the president of the country's football federation, Mahdi Mohammad Nab, among those unable to travel to the tournament because of United States entry restrictions.

Several participating teams have also complained about strict immigration procedures. Senegal's delegation underwent lengthy security checks on arrival in the United States, prompting criticism from supporters and observers.

Away from immigration issues, FIFA has faced scrutiny over ticket pricing and availability. Fans and several football associations complained about limited allocations and the high cost of tickets, with prices ranging from around $120 for some group-stage matches to $7,875 for premium seats at the final, while resale prices have climbed significantly higher.

Security concerns have also dominated discussion around the tournament, with host nations implementing extensive measures amid fears of extremist threats and organised crime.

Although FIFA president Gianni Infantino has repeatedly defended the tournament and called for unity, the latest controversy involving Partey has intensified questions over whether immigration policies and geopolitical issues have overshadowed football at what is supposed to be the world's biggest sporting event.