Black Stars World Cup qualifying budget for Chad and Mali games cut by over $732,000
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has slashed more than $732,000 from the Black Stars’ budget for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Mali, in line with President John Mahama’s directive to ensure transparency and fiscal discipline in national team spending.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams told reporters in Accra on Tuesday that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) initially requested $2,053,240, but the government approved $1,320,490 after a thorough review.
He explained that the budgeting process went through four stages—submission by the GFA, adjustments by the Ministry, vetting by the Presidency, and final clearance from the Ministry of Finance.
For Matchday 7 against Chad in N’Djamena, the GFA requested $1,239,090, but government approved $856,890, saving $382,200.
Reductions came from slashing imprest, scrapping facility user fees, rationalising transport, and restructuring bonuses, with players’ winning bonuses halved from $260,000 to $130,000.
A similar approach applied to Matchday 8 against Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium. Government approved $463,600 against the GFA’s request of $814,150, generating savings of $350,550. Again, cuts were made to imprest, accommodation, transport, and bonuses, saving $310,000 overall.
Adams stressed the cuts demonstrate government’s commitment to prudent spending.
“Across both match windows, we have realised total savings of $732,750. This demonstrates government’s resolve to protect taxpayers while ensuring the essentials required for the Black Stars to perform are fully funded,” he said.
