Following the passage of Ghana’s Sports Fund, a new public conversation is emerging about how the state can launch the fund with seed money.
It is emerging that Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be a defining moment for the fund. The conversation, which is roping in the World Cup, goes beyond goals, bonuses, and travel budgets.
A growing view is that the money Ghana earns from the World Cup should not disappear into routine spending, but instead be used as seed money for the newly established Ghana Sports Fund.
Despite the excitement that surrounds Ghana’s qualifications and participation in the various World Cups, some Ghanaians are asking a longstanding question: after the various World Cups, what lasting value has the country benefited and can show for its participation?
The argument is rooted in frustration, as for many years, Ghana’s World Cup earnings have been surrounded by controversy, with public debates over bonuses, allowances, and what many describe as “chop chop.”
If for nothing at all, the 2014 Brazil World Cup Scandal continues to remain fresh in the minds of many Ghanaians. Money was blown anyhow; no lasting legacy was made, as with other editions.
Despite the huge sums the country benefits from just participation, after the tournament and the excitement fade, the deeper problems in Ghanaian sports remain.
Bad pitches, poor remuneration of local players, lack of modern equipment, among others, have characterised Ghana’s football. Sadly, despite the football prowess of the country worldwide, it lacks a global standard Sports Stadium.
These challenges are some of the reasons the Ghana Sports Fund was established.
With this vision, some Ghanaians believe that using the World Cup proceeds as seed capital for the Sports Fund would change that story.
Under FIFA’s new prize structure, countries qualifying for the 2026 World Cup are guaranteed significant earnings. Channeling this money into the Sports Fund would give the fund a strong financial foundation from day one, without placing excessive pressure on the national budget.
More importantly, it would turn a short-term sporting event into a long-term national investment.
It is also believed that a properly funded Sports Fund could support grassroots sports, rehabilitate school parks, train coaches, and provide consistent funding for lesser-known sports that receive little attention.
It could help young talents across the country, not just footballers, but athletes, boxers, and para-sports competitors who often struggle without support.
This approach also makes economic sense. Instead of spending the World Cup money once, the funds could be invested and recycled into sports development year after year. Over time, this could reduce the government’s dependence on emergency budget allocations whenever a major competition approaches.
It would also improve public trust. Many Ghanaians feel disconnected from how sports money is spent. Dedicating World Cup proceeds to a transparent, purpose-driven fund would send a strong signal that lessons have been learned and that sports can be managed with discipline and accountability.
Beyond sports, the benefits could spill into jobs, youth engagement, and social development. Better sports infrastructure creates employment, keeps young people active, and opens pathways for talent to earn scholarships and professional contracts abroad.
This call is not about denying players or officials what they deserve. It is about balance. Pay what is fair, but ensure that the nation also gains something permanent from its biggest sporting moments.
