Ghana's government has launched a court challenge against Canada's decision to deny midfielder Thomas Partey a visa, as the 33-year-old faces missing his country's opening FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture.

Partey is set to be absent from Ghana's Group L opener against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday, following Canada's refusal to grant him entry. The visa denial is linked to active criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where Partey has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. The allegations, made by four different women, cover incidents alleged to have occurred between 2020 and 2022, with a trial scheduled for next year.

Government calls decision 'high-handed'

Ghanaian authorities have described Canada's stance as "high-handed and extremely unfair," and are petitioning the court for permission to allow Partey to enter the country temporarily to play in the match. The government has additionally requested that the court direct Canadian immigration officials to permit Partey to file a fresh visa application.

Ghana's foreign minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the country is simultaneously pursuing diplomatic channels in an effort to secure entry for the former Arsenal player, who now represents Spanish club Villarreal.

Canada stands firm on immigration law

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada responded to questions from the BBC, stating: "Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada's immigration laws. Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies."

It remains uncertain how long the court process will take, casting serious doubt over Partey's availability for Wednesday's clash.

What's at stake for Ghana

Partey has earned more than 50 caps for Ghana since his debut in June 2016 and remains a central figure for head coach Carlos Queiroz, who said before the tournament that he had no reservations about naming the midfielder in his squad.

Following the Panama game, Ghana face England in Boston on 23 June and Croatia in Philadelphia on 27 June. Should they finish as runners-up in Group L, Ghana could return to Canada for the last 32 — making the visa dispute potentially relevant beyond this week's opener.