President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the Ghanaian government will not be sponsoring large numbers of Black Stars supporters to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the enormous financial burden involved.
Speaking at a diaspora town hall meeting on May 31, 2026, President Mahama explained that transporting, feeding, accommodating and providing match tickets for supporters would cost nearly $11,000 per person, making it financially impractical for the country.
According to the President, Ghana remains committed to fiscal discipline and must prioritise responsible spending of public funds.
“The Black Stars, it will be difficult to take our supporters from home. We are restricted because of the nature of this particular World Cup,” he said.
Mahama noted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup presents unique logistical challenges because it will be hosted across three countries: Canada, United States and Mexico.
He explained that Ghana’s group-stage matches will be played in different cities, requiring extensive travel arrangements for supporters.
“It’s being held in three countries and we’re playing our first match in Canada and then moving to Boston, from Boston to Philadelphia,” he stated.
The President disclosed that estimates show each supporter would require almost $11,000 to cover transportation, accommodation, feeding and match tickets throughout the tournament.
“Transporting, feeding, ticketing and accommodating each supporter is estimated to cost almost $11,000, which is beyond our means. We have committed to fiscal discipline and cannot spend public funds in that manner,” he said.
Instead of financing travel for fans from Ghana, the government intends to support Ghanaians living abroad who wish to attend the matches.
Mahama revealed that authorities are procuring tickets for members of the Ghanaian diaspora and working closely with recognised supporters’ groups in cities where Ghana will be playing.
“But what we’re doing is we are procuring tickets for Ghanaians in the diaspora who want to attend the games,” he explained.
According to the President, Ghanaian communities in cities such as Boston, Philadelphia and other host locations will be mobilised to support the Black Stars during the tournament.
He also encouraged supporters who plan to travel independently to take advantage of official ticket arrangements that will be made available through recognised channels.
The announcement comes amid growing excitement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Ghana will be aiming to make a strong impression on football’s biggest stage.
While some fans may be disappointed by the decision, Mahama insists that prudent financial management must remain a priority as the country balances economic recovery efforts with support for national sporting activities.
