Why is Thomas Partey allowed to play against England at the World Cup while charged with rape? (opens original article in a new tab)

Thomas Partey will play in the 2026 World Cup for Ghana against England after being denied a Canadian visa for the opening match, despite facing rape and sexual assault charges in the UK.

• Thomas Partey will make his 2026 World Cup debut against England in Boston after being denied a Canadian visa for the opening match
• Partey faces seven rape charges and one sexual assault charge in the UK and has pleaded not guilty
• Partey's visa issue stems from undisclosed criminal charges on his application and Canadian immigration laws regarding admissibility