Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has dismissed reports suggesting Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey could miss Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage fixture against Panama due to visa-related issues.
The Minister clarified that while Partey previously encountered challenges in obtaining a visa to the United States, the matter has since been resolved and there is currently no indication that the player has been denied entry into any of the tournament’s host countries.
Speaking in an interview with Joy News, Kofi Adams explained that he is unaware of any visa denial involving the Ghana international and stressed that Partey has already secured the necessary documentation to enter the United States.
“I am not aware that he has been denied a visa. I knew his previous visa to the United States had some challenges, but he has since been issued a visa to be able to enter the United States, and I am unaware that he has been denied a visa to Canada. No, not that I’m aware,” Adams stated.
The Minister’s comments come amid growing speculation regarding Partey’s availability for Ghana’s Group Stage clash against Panama, scheduled to take place in Canada on June 17 as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reports circulating in recent days suggested that the midfielder could face travel complications because of ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. However, Kofi Adams indicated that no official information has been brought to his attention suggesting that the player has been denied entry into Canada, the United States or Mexico, the three countries jointly hosting the tournament.
According to the Sports Minister, neither the Ghana Football Association nor the Black Stars management team has communicated any concerns about Partey’s ability to travel for the competition.
“I don’t think if any such thing had happened, they would have communicated to me as Minister for Sports and Recreation. I haven’t received any such communication. I’ve been in touch with the FA and the management who are currently in the United States,” he added.
The Minister’s remarks are expected to ease concerns among Ghanaian football fans who have been closely monitoring developments surrounding one of the Black Stars’ most experienced midfielders ahead of the global showpiece.
Partey remains an important figure in Ghana’s squad and is expected to play a significant role as the Black Stars seek to make a strong impression at the tournament. His experience at the highest level of European football and his leadership qualities have made him a key component of the national team setup.
The visa discussions have emerged against the backdrop of ongoing legal proceedings involving the former Arsenal midfielder in the United Kingdom.
Partey is currently facing multiple criminal charges and is expected to stand trial at Southwark Crown Court in London. The case remains before the courts and legal proceedings are ongoing.
Despite the charges, Partey has consistently maintained his innocence through his legal representatives and has denied all allegations made against him.
Earlier this year, his lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, reiterated the player’s position while addressing the matter publicly.
“Thomas Partey continues to deny all charges against him. He has cooperated fully with the police throughout. Given that legal proceedings are ongoing, there will be no further comment,” she stated.
Under the conditions of his bail, Partey is required to notify the relevant authorities of any intention to travel outside the United Kingdom. This requirement has fueled speculation in some quarters regarding his international movements and participation in football-related activities abroad.
However, there is currently no official indication that the legal situation has affected his eligibility to travel for international duty with Ghana.
The Black Stars camp remains focused on preparations for the tournament, with players and officials determined to represent the nation strongly on the world stage. Ghana will be aiming to progress beyond the group phase and improve on previous World Cup performances.
As anticipation builds ahead of the competition, the Sports Minister’s clarification appears to have settled concerns surrounding Partey’s travel arrangements. Unless new information emerges from the relevant authorities, there is no official basis to suggest that the midfielder will be prevented from joining his teammates for Ghana’s World Cup campaign.
For now, attention remains firmly on the Black Stars’ preparations and their upcoming fixture against Panama as supporters eagerly await the team’s performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Follow Africa Live News for more updates on sports, business, politics and entertainment stories from Ghana, Africa and beyond.
Website: https://www.africalivenews.com
X (Twitter): https://x.com/africalivenews2
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Africalivenews
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africalivenews
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@africalivenews.com
