The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has unveiled a detailed financial plan totaling $13,776,965 USD (GH¢146,268,659.80) for the Black Stars’ participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Adams outlined how the funds will be used as Ghana prepares to compete in the global tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June 2026.
Ghana has been drawn in a competitive Group L, where they will face Panama, England, and Croatia in the opening round.
Preparation Phase
According to the sector minister, the team’s pre-tournament activities will cost $1,230,465 USD (GH¢13,063,723.90). This portion of the budget will cover a FIFA-mandated camping period as well as four international friendly matches.
Mr. Adams emphasized that these preparatory games are essential for building team chemistry and momentum before the Black Stars travel to the World Cup.
Group Stage Expenses
The largest share of the budget, $6,284,000 USD (GH¢66,716,599), has been allocated for the group stage. This amount will cover appearance fees, match bonuses, and daily allowances for players and technical staff. Funds have also been set aside for additional officials traveling with the delegation.
Knockout Stage Projections
The minister also provided a breakdown of costs should Ghana advance past the initial group phase. The budget shows that financial commitments increase as the team progresses deeper into the tournament:
Round of 32: $690,000 USD (GH¢7,325,661)
Round of 16: $920,000 USD
Quarterfinals: $1,137,500 USD
Semifinals: $1,365,000 USD
Final: $1,840,000 USD
Mr. Adams noted that unlike the group stage, the knockout rounds will not include appearance fees but will feature increased performance bonuses for players and staff.
Support Staff and Management
An additional $310,000 USD has been included in the overall budget to provide honorariums for management, officials, and support staff throughout the duration of the tournament.
Funding Source
The minister confirmed that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) will be responsible for covering the full cost of the team’s participation in the World Cup.