Sports Minister Kofi Adams Shocks Fans, Declares End to Government-Funded Tournament Support
Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has indicated that the government will no longer finance the travel of supporters to international tournaments, a move that may not sit well with some fan groups in the country.
For years, Ghana has flown supporters to back national teams during major competitions, notably the Black Stars. The practice, however, has faced growing criticism over its financial implications. During the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, the government reportedly spent $3 million, with a portion covering accommodation, feeding, and travel costs for fans.
In an interview on Starr FM, the Sports Minister stressed the need to cut down expenditure and protect public funds. “I don’t think that government must spend money to fly fans to tournaments. We can bring corporates to send supporters, but not government money,” Adams stated.
He reiterated his support for the national team and added that if Ghana wins the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he would arrange first-class flights for the entire squad to tour every district in Ghana to celebrate the achievement.
His remarks come at a time when many fans are hopeful that the Black Stars will qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and are expecting government support to travel and cheer the team at the tournament.
