President of the Football Association and 2nd CAF Vice-President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has paid a working visit to Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, as part of ongoing preparations for Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The engagement focused on matters of mutual interest, with discussions centring on Ghana’s group placement and the broader logistical and operational preparations required ahead of the global showpiece. Ghana has been drawn in Pot 4, Group L, alongside Panama, England and Croatia. President Simeon-Okraku noted that the group arrangement will see the Black Stars play their matches across multiple venues, Boston, Philadelphia and Toronto, an arrangement that presents unique logistical challenges for the team, technical staff and supporting delegation. He emphasised the need for early coordination and strategic planning to ensure smooth operations throughout the tournament. As part of the GFA’s broader engagement strategy, President Simeon-Okraku also announced plans to officially launch Ghana’s new national team jerseys in Washington, D.C. He further revealed that the FA intends to use the World Cup period to establish talent identification camps aimed at scouting and nurturing young Ghanaian players for the future.
The President further noted that the Football Association is working in close collaboration with his office, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure a seamless and well-coordinated experience for Ghanaians throughout the tournament.
The GFA President highlighted the importance of close collaboration with the Ghanaian Embassy before and during the World Cup, stressing that the tournament represents a major global platform for Ghana. He indicated that the Football Association expects strong institutional support to help facilitate team operations while projecting Ghana’s image and interests on the world stage.
In response, Ambassador Victor Emmanuel Smith pledged the Embassy’s full support to ensure that the Black Stars’ World Cup campaign is both successful and memorable. He assured the GFA of the Mission’s commitment to working closely with the Football Association to address coordination needs arising from the tournament’s multi-city format and to advance Ghana’s broader agenda around the competition.
Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to collaboration, agreeing to work together to deliver on the outlined plans and provide the necessary support to position Ghana for a successful 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
GFA Communications