2026 World Cup: Government releases over GHS76m for Black Stars' campaign

The Government of Ghana has approved the release of more than GH¢76 million to support the Black Stars' participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, providing a major financial boost ahead of the team's opening match at the tournament.

In a statement issued on Friday, the government disclosed that the Ministry of Finance had authorised the release of GH¢76,466,919.20 to cover expenses related to Ghana's World Cup campaign across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The funding package has been allocated to support both the team's preparations and participation in the group stage of the competition, as well as the payment of outstanding qualification bonuses.

According to the statement, GH¢58,929,500.00, the cedi equivalent of US$5 million, has been released as an advance to facilitate the Black Stars' preparations and operational costs for the group phase of the tournament.

Government noted that the early disbursement of the funds underscores its commitment to ensuring that the players, technical staff and management team have the necessary resources to focus on delivering a successful campaign.

In addition, GH¢17,537,419.20, equivalent to US$1.488 million, has been earmarked for the settlement of outstanding qualification bonuses owed to players and officials.

The payment fulfils an arrangement reached during the qualifying series, under which 50 per cent of the bonuses were paid during the qualification campaign, with the remaining balance due upon securing a place at the World Cup finals.

The Black Stars recently concluded a pre-tournament training camp in Washington, D.C., before relocating to Providence, Rhode Island, where they are putting the finishing touches to preparations ahead of the competition.

Head coach Carlos Queiroz and his squad will begin their Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17. Ghana will then face England in Boston on June 23 before rounding off the group stage against Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.

The four-time African champions are making their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, having previously featured at the 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2022 editions.

Ghana's finest World Cup achievement came in 2010 when the Black Stars reached the quarter-finals in South Africa, narrowly missing out on a historic semi-final place after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat.

Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the national team and the broader development of sports in the country, expressing confidence that the timely release of funds will enable the Black Stars to concentrate fully on their World Cup objectives.

The statement also urged Ghanaians to continue backing the team throughout the tournament, expressing optimism that the Black Stars can make a strong impression on football's biggest stage.