Mahama Says 2014 World Cup Scandal Tarnished Ghana’s Image, Promises Transparency Ahead of 2026 Campaign
Former President John Dramani Mahama has assured Ghanaians that firm measures are being implemented to prevent a repeat of the embarrassing events that marred the Black Stars’ 2014 World Cup campaign in Brazil.
Ghana became the subject of global ridicule after Mahama’s administration was forced to airlift cash to Brazil to settle player bonuses, following unrest in the national team camp. Reflecting on the incident, Mahama admitted that the episode badly damaged Ghana’s international reputation.
“Brazil 2014 dented Ghana’s reputation, but that is all behind us now,” he told Sporty FM.
The former president said steps have been taken to ensure discipline, transparency, and prompt payment of player entitlements in future tournaments.
“We’ve encouraged the GFA to ensure that payments due to the players are processed as quickly as possible. To ensure Brazil doesn’t happen again, there must be discipline and transparency,” he explained.
Mahama added that with advances in financial systems, such as direct bank transfers, there will no longer be any need for cash payments to players.
“The players have accounts now. We can pay their money directly instead of flying cash to them. That’s why I say the lessons of 2014 have been learned, and I believe this will be a smoother, more disciplined, and transparent campaign.”
His comments come after the Black Stars sealed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 victory over Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
