Djed Spence Snubs Thomas Partey’s Handshake Over Rape Allegations at World Cup
During a 2026 World Cup group match between England and Ghana in Boston, England defender Djed Spence refused to shake hands with Ghana’s Thomas Partey, who faces multiple rape and sexual assault charges. The snub drew significant media attention. England manager Thomas Tuchel was blocked from commenting on legal grounds, while a Ghana press officer physically pulled Jordan Ayew away from a related interview. The match ended 0-0.
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Rio Ferdinand Denies Fake Comments About England-Ghana Handshake Incident
Rio Ferdinand has publicly refuted fake quotes circulating on social media that criticized Djed Spence for snubbing Thomas Partey before the England-Ghana World Cup 2026 qualifier. Spence avoided shaking hands with Partey, who faces five counts of rape and one of sexual assault from incidents alleged between 2021 and 2022. Ferdinand posted on X that the attributed comments are false. Partey, now at Villarreal, maintains his not guilty plea and remains on bail. Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz defended selecting Partey, stating the legal process should run its course.
CaughtOffsideSpence refuses handshake with Partey, cites faith amid assault allegations
During a World Cup group stage match between England and Ghana, England defender Jed Spence refused to shake hands with Ghanaian player Thomas Partey, instead putting his hand in his pocket. The incident occurred as Partey faces legal prosecution for alleged sexual assault. Spence explained his actions by citing his religious beliefs, stating his faith guides his decisions. The move drew mixed reactions: former Manchester United star Patrice Evra criticized it as a 'despicable' public show, while Rio Ferdinand emphasized the presumption of innocence before a court conviction. Partey responded with an open letter, maintaining his innocence, expressing pride in representing Ghana, and choosing to focus on the game and his team.
虎扑 - 足球Thomas Tuchel Downplays Djed Spence Rant; Spence May Avoid Sanction Over Thomas Partey Snub
During England's goalless World Cup draw with Ghana, England manager Thomas Tuchel was seen screaming at defender Djed Spence on the sideline. Tuchel later downplayed the incident, saying he had to shout to be heard and that he wanted Spence more engaged in attack. Separately, Spence did not shake hands with Ghana's Thomas Partey before kick-off, which was caught on TV footage. It is believed Spence is unlikely to face any FIFA disciplinary action. Partey currently faces seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in the UK from allegations by four women. Tuchel confirmed he has no issue with Spence and praised his defensive performance.
Mirror - FootballGhana Press Officer Pushes Ayew Away During Interview About Thomas Partey Handshake
After a World Cup group stage match where Ghana drew 0-0 with England, Ghana player Jordan Ayew was being interviewed in the mixed zone. A reporter asked him about an incident involving teammate Thomas Partey, who reportedly refused a handshake from Spence. Before the reporter finished the question, a Ghana press officer interrupted, said 'Let's go', and physically pushed Ayew away from the media area. The incident was captured on video and shared on social media, generating discussion among fans. The article is sourced from Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports news platform.
虎扑 - 足球England boss Thomas Tuchel blocked from answering question on Djed Spence's Thomas Partey snub
England manager Thomas Tuchel was prevented from answering a question about Tottenham full-back Djed Spence's refusal to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their World Cup group match in Boston. Spence was the only England player not to shake Partey's hand, who is facing trial next year after pleading not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault. During the post-match press conference, England Communications Lead Andy Walker blocked Tuchel from responding, citing 'legal' matters. On the pitch, England drew 0-0 with Ghana, hitting the crossbar and having a goal cleared off the line. England captain Harry Kane expressed disappointment at not securing the win. England will face Panama in their final Group L match.
Mirror - FootballDjed Spence Reportedly Refused Handshake with Thomas Partey Over Allegations
During a 2026 World Cup group match between England and Ghana, England defender Djed Spence allegedly refused to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey during the pre-match FIFA protocol. The incident was noticed by British media including the Daily Mail, as Partey has been accused by four women of rape and sexual assault. The match itself was uneventful, ending 0-0, but the handshake snub drew significant media attention due to the ongoing legal allegations against the Ghanaian player.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertDjed Spence appears to snub handshake with Thomas Partey before England vs Ghana World Cup match
Social media footage appears to show England full-back Djed Spence not shaking hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their World Cup group match in Boston. Partey, who plays for Villarreal, was booed by England fans during the match, as he made his first appearance in the tournament after missing Ghana's opening win against Panama due to being denied entry into Canada. The denial stemmed from Partey's disclosure that he faces seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault, to which he has pleaded not guilty, with a trial scheduled next year. The Football Association reportedly did not discuss the pre-match handshake protocol with players. The match ended in a dour draw, frustrating England.
BBC SportDjed Spence Appears to Snub Thomas Partey Handshake Before England vs Ghana World Cup 2026 Match
A video circulating on social media shows England full-back Djed Spence apparently refusing to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their World Cup 2026 match. The incident occurred as Spence made his starting debut for England under Thomas Tuchel, replacing Nico O'Reilly. The article notes that Partey has previously pleaded not guilty to charges of rape and sexual assault, and that he faced travel restrictions earlier in the tournament due to ongoing criminal proceedings. Observers suggest Spence may have been making a deliberate statement by snubbing Partey specifically, though no comment from Spence has been reported yet. The match was 0-0 at the time of writing.
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