President John Dramani Mahama has rallied the Black Stars ahead of their opening match against Panama at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto, urging the team to play with determination, patriotism and a deep sense of responsibility to the millions of Ghanaians rooting for their success.
In an official statement issued on 17 June 2026 and signed by the Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President described Ghana’s fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the nation.
Addressing the national team directly, President Mahama reminded the players that they carry not only a football but also the hopes, dreams and aspirations of over 30 million Ghanaians.
“You carry more than a ball. You are carrying the hopes, dreams, and heritage of a people,” the President stated.
He noted that support for the Black Stars cuts across every corner of the country, from urban centres to rural communities, with citizens united behind the national team as they seek to make an impact on the global stage.
According to the President, every Ghanaian heart beats in solidarity with the team as they begin their World Cup campaign, expressing confidence in their ability to make the nation proud.
President Mahama also called on members of the Ghanaian diaspora in Canada and across North America to serve as the team’s “12th Man” by providing unwavering support from the stands.
He encouraged Ghanaians living abroad to turn stadiums into a sea of red, gold and green and create an atmosphere that would remind the players that they carry the backing of an entire nation.
The President further disclosed that the government had secured official television broadcast rights for the tournament to ensure that all Ghanaians, regardless of their location, could follow the country’s World Cup journey.
He said the arrangement would allow football fans across the country to watch every match, describing it as a demonstration of government’s commitment to ensuring that no Ghanaian is excluded from the national experience.
“At home, the Government has ensured that no citizen is left behind,” the statement said.
President Mahama urged the players to compete not only for victory but also for the flag, the nation and the young Ghanaians who aspire to emulate their achievements.
He expressed confidence that the Black Stars would shine on football’s biggest stage and continue Ghana’s proud World Cup tradition.
The Black Stars begin their campaign against Panama in Toronto amid high expectations from football supporters both at home and abroad, with many hoping the team can replicate and surpass the achievements of previous Ghanaian squads at the World Cup.
The government’s message comes as excitement continues to build across the country, with football fans eagerly anticipating Ghana’s return to the world’s most prestigious football tournament.
