Kurt Okraku engages Maryland State leadership to strengthen Ghana’s 2026 World Cup preparations

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and 2nd Vice-President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has paid a working visit to the Office of the Governor of the State of Maryland as part of ongoing high-level engagements ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

During the visit, President Simeon-Okraku held productive discussions with the Honourable Aruna Miller, Lieutenant Governor of the State of Maryland, and Chief of Staff Geri Royals Byrd. The talks explored areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration aimed at supporting Ghanas participation in the global showpiece, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The engagement forms part of the GFA Presidents broader diplomatic and institutional outreach across the United States, focused on strengthening strategic partnerships to enhance operational planning, logistics, fan engagement and institutional support for the Black Stars during the tournament. President Simeon-Okraku underscored the importance of early coordination with key stakeholders across host states and cities to ensure smooth operations and a seamless experience for the team and Ghanaian supporters.

Ghana has been drawn in Group L of the tournament and will open their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto, before facing England in Boston and concluding the group stage with a clash against Croatia in Philadelphia. The multi-city schedule presents unique logistical demands, further highlighting the need for strong institutional collaboration and proactive planning.

President Simeon-Okraku, who has been holding a series of strategic meetings with partners across the United States, reaffirmed the Football Associations commitment to delivering a well-organised, impactful and memorable World Cup campaign for Ghana. He noted that such engagements are vital to advancing Ghanas interests, projecting a positive national image and ensuring the Black Stars receive optimal support both on and off the pitch.

The Ghana Football Association say it will continue to build and strengthen alliances that contribute to a successful and meaningful 2026 FIFA World Cup experience for the nation.