Black Stars’ World Cup Bonuses Delayed Due to Tax Discussions, Says Kofi Adams

Accra: Sports Minister Kofi Adams has clarified the reasons behind the delay in disbursing the final World Cup bonuses to the Black Stars players and technical team for the 2026 tournament. According to Adams, the delay stems from ongoing discussions between FIFA and the host countries regarding tax obligations linked to the event. According to Ghana Web, Adams pointed out that it remains undecided whether the taxes will be the responsibility of individual players or the Ghana Football Association (GFA), and by extension, the government. 'We haven't paid because we need to settle the matters of taxes,' Adams stated, emphasizing the need for a resolution before the bonuses can be processed. The Minister highlighted that Ghana has already paid a $100,000 clearance fee to FIFA, which surpasses the bonuses owed to the players. He questioned the rationale behind withholding the bonuses when the government has already fulfilled the clearance fee obligation. 'We have paid a clearance fee to them, which is $100,000 , higher than those bonuses that is due them. Why do you think we will not pay that?' he added. Adams further explained that FIFA is still in discussions with the host countries to address the tax issue, and the final outcome will determine how the outstanding bonuses are handled. 'Whether it's going to be the responsibility of individual players to pay the tax, or it's going to be the responsibility of the member association, and by extension, therefore, the country to pay those taxes. Once we conclude on that, then we know whose responsibility it is, then the appropriate deductions are done, and the remainder of the money gets paid. So that is why we are where we are,' he elaborated. Adams also noted that financial incentives should not be the sole motivator for the national team. 'Money motivation should not necessarily always be money, because if it is money, we would have done it,' he remarked.