No state funds for World Cup supporters – Sports Ministry clarifies

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has clarified that the government will not use public funds to sponsor supporters travelling to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing recent suggestions to the contrary as a deliberate distortion of information.

In a statement issued on June 18, the Ministry said President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry have consistently ruled out the use of state funds for that purpose, citing the high cost estimated at up to $11,000 per fan and the need to prioritise domestic economic development and sports infrastructure.

The Ministry said its position aligns with the recommendations of the Justice Dzanefe Committee report and the subsequent White Paper, which clearly stipulate that no state funds should be allocated to mobilise supporters for national team trips abroad.

Following the President’s directives, the government has instead launched a private sector-led fundraising initiative. A fundraising event at Kempinski Hotel was held to raise approximately $30 million to fund Ghana’s participation in the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Any surplus funds after covering essential expenses will be dedicated to sports infrastructure development.

Mr Adams assured Ghanaians that transparency and accountability will guide the management of all resources mobilised. He expressed gratitude to corporate Ghana for their generous response to the appeal for donations.

The Ministry said comprehensive updates on the allocation and utilisation of funds received from corporate partners will be provided at the appropriate time.

The government’s position, the statement emphasised, is not to prevent supporters from attending the World Cup, but to do so responsibly and transparently without using public funds.