Story perspectives

Thomas Partey Pleads Not Guilty to Multiple Rape Charges

9/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

Ghanaian footballer Thomas Partey, 32, pleaded not guilty to five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court.
The charges involve two women for rape and a third for sexual assault, with incidents alleged between 2021 and 2022 during his time at Arsenal.
Partey was charged after leaving Arsenal in June 2025 and joining Villarreal in August.
His trial is scheduled for November 2, 2026, due to court backlog.
He remains on bail with conditions, including no contact with the complainants.

History

Historical Context

The #MeToo movement surged in 2018, spotlighting sexual harassment and assault, notably leading to legal actions against figures like Harvey Weinstein, who faced accusations from over 80 women. This cultural shift has impacted sports, as seen in the ongoing legal proceedings against footballer Thomas Partey, charged in 2025 with multiple counts of rape related to incidents from 2021 and 2022, reflecting a demand for accountability.

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Story summary

Ghanaian footballer Thomas Partey, 32, pleaded not guilty to five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault at Southwark Crown Court.
The charges involve two women for rape and a third for sexual assault, with incidents alleged between 2021 and 2022 during his time at Arsenal.
Partey was charged after leaving Arsenal in June 2025 and joining Villarreal in August.
His trial is scheduled for November 2, 2026, due to court backlog.
He remains on bail with conditions, including no contact with the complainants.

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