Background on the Charges
Thomas Partey was initially charged in July 2025 with five counts of rape relating to two women and one count of sexual assault involving a third woman. The alleged offences occurred between 2021 and 2022. He appeared at Southwark Crown Court in September 2025, where he pleaded not guilty to all six charges. A trial for these original allegations is scheduled at Southwark Crown Court on November 2, 2026.
In February 2026, authorities brought two further counts of rape against Partey, stemming from allegations involving a separate complainant. These new charges relate to two alleged incidents of rape on the same day in December 2020 in London.
Latest Court Developments
At the March 13, 2026, hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court, Partey's barrister, Emma Fenn, informed the court that he intends to plead not guilty to the two new rape counts. No formal plea has yet been entered for these additional charges, but the indication came under his instructions.
The case for the new allegations has been transferred to Southwark Crown Court, with the next hearing set for April 10, 2026. Partey has been reminded that he must attend or risk breaching his bail conditions.
These developments follow a Metropolitan Police investigation, with the Crown Prosecution Service authorizing the charges based on evidence gathered.
Impact and Implications
The ongoing legal proceedings continue to draw significant attention given Partey's high-profile career. The former Arsenal player, who joined Villarreal on a one-year deal in the summer of 2025 after leaving the Premier League club, maintains his innocence across all allegations.
The addition of these charges increases the scope of the case, now involving allegations from four separate complainants. Legal proceedings remain at an early stage for the new counts, with the full trial for the initial charges still months away.
What’s Next
Partey is expected to appear at Southwark Crown Court on April 10, 2026, for the first hearing related to the two new charges. The November 2026 trial date applies to the original five rape counts and one sexual assault charge.
All parties emphasize the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise. The case will proceed through the UK judicial system, with further updates anticipated as hearings progress.
Key Takeaway
Thomas Partey, through his legal representation, has signaled his intention to deny the two most recent rape charges in addition to his prior not guilty pleas. The matter remains under active judicial review, with key court dates scheduled in the coming months.