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Jun 23, 20262
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England Defender Opts Out of Handshake with Ghana's Thomas Partey Amid Ongoing Criminal Case
England defender Jed Spence opted out of the pre-match handshake with Ghana's Thomas Partey before their World Cup 2026 group match, following an FA policy allowing players to decide individually in light of Partey's ongoing criminal case. Partey, who missed Ghana's opener due to visa issues, has denied charges of rape and sexual assault and will face trial next summer. He has been granted a US visa for the remaining group games.





Quick Facts
Who
Jed Spence
What
Opted out of handshake
When
2026-06-23
Where
Boston
- Opted out of handshake
- Denied entry into Canada
- Charged with rape and sexual assault
- Denied charges
- Visa granted for United States
Ahead of their World Cup 2026 Group L clash in Boston, England defender Jed Spence declined to participate in the traditional pre-match handshake with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, following a policy from the Football Association (FA) that left the decision to individual players. The FA's stance was linked to the ongoing criminal proceedings against Partey in the United Kingdom, where he faces seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault involving four women between 2020 and 2022. Partey has denied all charges and is scheduled to stand trial next summer.
Partey missed Ghana's opening World Cup match against Panama, a 1-0 victory, after being denied entry into Canada due to his legal situation. The visa refusal drew criticism from Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which described it as a "high-handed and extremely unfair decision." A Canadian federal judge rejected Ghana's appeal, and Canadian officials stated that immigration decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, independent of the World Cup. However, Partey has been granted a visa for the United States, allowing him to play in Ghana's remaining group matches.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday's match, Partey acknowledged the challenges but expressed readiness to play. "Things happen outside football that you cannot control," he said. "For me now, I feel OK and I'm ready to play." He also looked forward to reuniting with former Arsenal teammates Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, adding, "I hope they're going to bring their best and try to give us the opportunity to play against the best and try to compete and enjoy the game."
Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz did not confirm whether Partey would start against England. Ghana currently sits second in Group L and will face Croatia in their final group match on Saturday. The match against England is a crucial test for both teams as they vie for advancement in the tournament.
Why This Matters
This incident underscores the intersection of sports and legal proceedings, highlighting how organizations like the FA navigate ethical dilemmas in real-time. For readers, it illustrates the practical consequences of ongoing criminal cases for athletes' participation and public perception, with implications for team dynamics, sponsorship, and international travel. Understanding these nuances is crucial for following global sports governance and the rights of accused individuals.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 23, 2026
WirePartey denied entry into Canada, misses Ghana's opener against Panama
Jun 23, 2026
WireEngland defender Jed Spence opts out of handshake with Partey
Jun 23, 2026
WirePartey states he is ready to play against England