- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Ibrahim Mahama Promises Special Reward to Black Stars as Ghana Eye Last 32 Spot
Businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama has pledged a special personal reward to Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, as they prepare for a decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage clash against Croatia.
Mahama made the promise during a visit to the team’s training camp in Rhode Island, United States, on Thursday, where he encouraged the players and technical staff ahead of Saturday’s crucial encounter.
The renowned entrepreneur was part of a high-profile Ghanaian delegation led by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Smith. The delegation also included Minister for Sports and Recreation Hon. Kofi Adams and Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa.
The visit came shortly after Ghana’s goalless draw against England, a result that left the Black Stars level on four points at the top of Group L and firmly in contention for a place in the Round of 32.
Addressing the squad, Mahama revealed that he had largely distanced himself from football following Ghana’s heartbreaking exit from the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
“In 2010, the President and I went to South Africa to watch the match and were robbed,” he recalled. “From then, I told myself that I wouldn’t follow football again. But my son has continued to follow the game and encouraged me to reconnect with football.”
The businessman admitted he arrived expecting only to meet the players but was equally impressed by the work being done behind the scenes by the technical team.
“I’ve heard many of the players’ names but had never really connected them with faces. Seeing this team reminds me of the great Black Stars sides that made us proud over the years,” Mahama said.
The visit rekindled his passion for Ghana football, and he assured the team of his support moving forward.
“I am going to follow your journey closely,” he told the players. “I will also invest in you because both the players and the technical team have done very well. We need to discover more Ghanaian talents and untold stories and see how we can achieve success together.”
Mahama then lifted the mood in camp by announcing an additional incentive package for the team, separate from the bonuses already provided by the government.
“Apart from the government’s bonus, I have a special bonus for you,” he declared. “I was planning to leave, but now I am staying to watch you. I can assure you that I have a much better bonus for you than the taxpayers. So go out there, make Ghana proud, and you will be rewarded.”
The promise was met with enthusiasm as the Black Stars continue preparations for one of their most important matches of the tournament.
Ghana will face Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday, June 28, with a place in the knockout stages at stake. A victory would guarantee the four-time African champions qualification to the Round of 32 and continue their impressive campaign in the United States.
Also present during the visit were Ghana Football Association President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, Vice President Mark Addo, Dr. Randy Abbey, former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah, Moses Armah, and Samuel Aboabire, all of whom joined in rallying support for the national team ahead of the decisive showdown.
With qualification within touching distance and morale boosted by the backing of influential figures from home, the Black Stars will be aiming to deliver a memorable performance against Croatia and keep Ghana’s World Cup dream alive.
