Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams has explained that outstanding World Cup bonuses owed to the Black Stars have not yet been paid because discussions over the payment of taxes are still ongoing.
Adams said the government is ready to settle the outstanding amounts but must first determine which party will be responsible for the associated tax obligations.
He explained that the issue involves discussions over whether the taxes should be paid by the individual players, the Ghana Football Association or the state.
The minister also indicated that the Ghana Football Association could have given a clearer explanation about the delay, adding that FIFA is engaging World Cup host countries on tax-related matters.
Adams further disclosed that the players have already received a 100-thousand-dollar appearance fee, which he said is higher than the outstanding bonuses.
He said the government has no intention of withholding the players’ money and will make the appropriate tax deductions once responsibility for the payments has been established.
Adams also stressed that representing Ghana should not be motivated solely by financial rewards, saying players should have other reasons for committing themselves to the national team.
The Black Stars are meanwhile preparing for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Ghana will begin with an away match against Ivory Coast in Bouaké before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.
The team is seeking a return to the continental tournament after Ghana failed to qualify for the previous edition held in Morocco. The 2027 AFCON will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
