President John Dramani Mahama has ruled out the use of public funds to sponsor Ghanaian supporters for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the significant financial burden such an undertaking would place on the state.

Speaking at a World Cup fundraising campaign on Friday, March 20, 2026, the President said the decision aligns with recommendations in the Dzamefe Commission Report, which advises against state sponsorship of fan travel to international tournaments.

“In consonance with the Dzamefe Report, the government has no plans to allocate public funds to fly supporters to the World Cup,” he said.

President Mahama explained that even modest efforts to support a limited number of fans would be costly. He noted that transporting and accommodating just 200 supporters could approach $2 million.

“The logistical support of flying and accommodating even just 200 supporters is staggering,” he added.

While acknowledging the importance of Ghanaian supporters at the global showpiece, Mahama emphasised that the government must prioritise prudent fiscal management and channel resources toward more pressing national needs, such as job creation.

Mahama World Cup — Black Stars supporters

“We all want to see our fans in the stands, but we must be responsible in how we use public resources,” he said.

The announcement marks a shift from previous practices, where governments provided financial support for fans travelling to major tournaments. Under the new approach, supporters hoping to cheer on the Black Stars in the United States, Canada, and Mexico will need to rely on private sponsorship, personal funding, or organised fundraising initiatives.

Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama and will open its campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto.