Ghana budgets $13.7m for Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup campaign

The government has unveiled a comprehensive $13.7 million budget for the Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup campaign, with the Ghana Football Association bearing the full cost.

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has announced a total budget of $13,776,965 (GH¢146,268,659.80) to fund Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June 2026.

Addressing the press on Thursday, February 26, Mr. Adams detailed a financial roadmap covering the team’s preparations through to a potential appearance in the final. Ghana has been drawn in Group L, where they will face England, Croatia, and Panama.

Pre-tournament preparation

A sum of $1,230,465 (GH¢13,063,723.90) has been allocated for pre-tournament activities. This includes funding for a FIFA-mandatory camping period and four international friendly matches.

Mr. Adams emphasized the strategic importance of these friendlies, describing them as essential for the technical team to assess player combinations, build match fitness, and foster team cohesion ahead of the group stage.

Group stage funding

The largest portion of the budget, $6,284,000 (GH¢66,716,599), is reserved for the group phase. This allocation will cover appearance fees, match bonuses, and per diems for players and technical staff, as well as allowances for additional officials.

Performance-based knockout stage budget

Should the Black Stars advance past the group stage, the financial structure shifts to a performance-based model. The budget outlines increasing allocations for each subsequent round, with funds dedicated to performance bonuses rather than appearance fees:

· Round of 32: $690,000
· Round of 16: $920,000
· Quarter-finals: $1,137,500
· Semi-finals: $1,365,000
· Final: $1,840,000

An additional $310,000 has been earmarked as honorariums for management, officials, and support staff for the duration of the tournament.

GFA to shoulder financial responsibility

Crucially, Mr. Adams confirmed that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) will be solely responsible for funding the campaign, clarifying that the state will not directly finance the tournament expenses.

The announcement provides a clear fiscal framework for Ghana’s campaign and comes amid ongoing discussions regarding sports financing in the country.