Black Stars’ $9m World Cup earnings to be channelled to new Sports Fund – Kofi Adams

The $9 million prize Ghanas Black Stars will receive for qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be deposited into the countrys newly established Sports Fund, Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams has confirmed.

Under the expanded 48-team tournament format, every qualifying nation is set to receive a minimum of $10.5 million, comprising $9 million in prize money for group-stage participation and an additional $1.5 million earmarked for preparation expenses.

Speaking to Citi Sports, Adams explained that anticipated World Cup revenues were a key factor behind the creation of the fund.

If you look at the rationale behind the bill we presented to Parliament, one of our main objectives was to take advantage of the current periodpreparation for the FIFA World Cup. Once the bill is signed into law, it becomes an act, he said.

The minister clarified how proceeds from international competitions would feed into the fund.

One source is earnings from tournaments. For instance, FIFA will award us $9 million, while the $1.5 million is allocated for preparation. Unless there are unavoidable costs, the $9 million will go directly into the fund, Adams noted.

According to the minister, channeling revenues through a structured system will allow Ghana to invest sustainably in sports infrastructure and development.

Once in the fund, there will be structured utilisation. For the first time, we can have infrastructure and facilities that are a direct result of our World Cup participation, he added.

Adams also emphasized the governments commitment to leaving a tangible legacy from Ghanas 2026 World Cup campaign in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

We intend to showcase projects that demonstrate what we have achieved through our participation in the 2026 World Cup, he said.

Highlighting the financial incentives tied to advancing in the tournament, Adams expressed confidence in the Black Stars chances.

If we progress to the next round of 32 teams, theres an additional $3 million, and advancing further to the round of 16 adds another $4 million. The further we go, the greater the returns. We just have to perform, and I believe we can be among the top four, he concluded.