2026 World Cup: I have no evidence of GFA influence in Black Stars squad selection, says Sports Minister Kofi Adams

Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has dismissed suggestions that the Ghana Football Association’s leadership influenced player selections for the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

His comments come in the wake of widespread criticism following the announcement of head coach Carlos Queiroz’s 26-man squad, which sparked debate among supporters and analysts.

The controversy intensified after the omission of Joseph Paintsil and Derrick Köhn, with some critics alleging interference from the football governing body’s hierarchy in the final selection process.

Speaking to TV3 Sports, Adams firmly rejected the claims, insisting there is no evidence to support such assertions.

"I have no evidence that the GFA influenced the coach in the selection of the players," Kofi Adams stated.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars are currently in the United States as they step up preparations for their opening World Cup fixture next week.

Ghana, set to make their fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament, have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.

The four-time African champions will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium. They will wrap up their group-stage matches against Croatia on June 27.

The team is aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time since their historic quarter-final run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.