The Incident
Djed Spence appeared to refuse a pre-match handshake with Thomas Partey before England's FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage clash against Ghana in Boston. Footage circulating on social media shows the Tottenham Hotspur full-back walking past Partey without offering his hand, while all other England players completed the customary pre-match gesture.
The incident occurred as the two teams lined up for the national anthems at Boston Stadium. Live television pictures did not capture every handshake, but clips that later spread online appeared to confirm the snub. It immediately sparked debate on social media, given Partey's ongoing legal case.
Background on Partey's Controversy
Partey, now at Spanish club Villarreal, has pleaded not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations by four different women between 2020 and 2022. He is scheduled to stand trial next year. The 33-year-old midfielder missed Ghana's opening 1-0 win against Panama in Toronto after he was denied entry into Canada. He told officials he had never been arrested nor charged with a crime.
Ahead of the match, US Customs and Border Protection confirmed that Partey had been admitted to the United States after being issued a visa.
"The US is aware of the pending court case for Mr Partey. However, at this time, he has not been convicted of a crime and was admitted to the United States after being issued a visa,"the statement read.
Partey himself said before the match he felt
"ready to play"against England, but his every touch was met with loud boos from the England supporters inside the stadium.
Reaction and FA Stance
BBC Sport understands the Football Association did not discuss the pre-match handshake with players before the game. No specific guidance was given to England's squad on how to handle their interaction with Partey. However, the expectation was that all players would follow FIFA protocols and shake hands with each opponent, as they did against Croatia in their opening match.
The FA has declined to comment on Spence's apparent gesture, but the incident is likely to attract further scrutiny as the World Cup progresses. Spence himself has not publicly addressed the matter.
Key Takeaways
- Djed Spence appeared to deliberately avoid shaking hands with Thomas Partey, creating a flashpoint before kick-off.
- Partey is facing serious criminal charges in the UK and has pleaded not guilty; he is due to stand trial next year.
- England fans booed Partey at every touch, and his name was met with jeers when read out before the match.
- The FA gave players no specific instructions on how to handle the pre-match handshake.
- The incident adds to the immense scrutiny on Partey's participation in the tournament.
Quick Facts
Event: England vs Ghana – 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L
Date: 23 June 2026
Venue: Boston Stadium, USA
Spence's club: Tottenham Hotspur
Partey's club: Villarreal
Partey's legal status: Pleaded not guilty to rape and sexual assault charges; trial pending