Democracy Cup: Speaker Bagbin receives 2026 trophy, unveils major Sunderland initiative

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has officially received the 2026 Democracy Cup trophy ahead of the much-anticipated clash between Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak.

The match is scheduled for August 28, 2026, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Speaker Bagbin highlighted the unique nature of Ghana’s democratic journey and stressed the important role football can play in promoting national unity, social cohesion and civic education.

He also announced a new partnership involving Ghana and English Premier League side Sunderland.

Under the "Visit Ghana" initiative, the tourism campaign will feature prominently on the front of Sunderland’s jersey during the 2026/27 English Premier League season.

The partnership is aimed at leveraging the global reach of English football to promote Ghana as a leading tourism destination and attract more visitors to the country.

Speaker Bagbin further revealed that the partnership will create opportunities for talented young Ghanaian footballers to train with the Sunderland Academy, providing them with exposure to a top-level football development environment.

As part of the Democracy Cup celebrations, the Speaker also confirmed that he will lead a delegation to present the trophy to other arms of government, including President John Dramani Mahama.

The Democracy Cup is expected to bring together Ghana’s two biggest football clubs in a fixture that combines football, democracy and national unity.