Black Stars’ World Cup bonus delay due to tax talks – Sports Minister Kofi Adams

Ghana's Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams explained that the delay in paying the Black Stars' outstanding bonuses is due to ongoing talks surrounding tax obligations connected to their World Cup earnings. The minister emphasized that financial incentives should not be the sole driving force behind the national team, stating that the overdue payments will be disbursed once the tax matters are settled.

Adams questioned why the Ghana Football Association's Director of Communications hadn't offered more insight into the delay, highlighting that FIFA is currently negotiating tax issues with the host nations. He also pointed out that the government had already given the players an appearance fee of $100,000, which exceeds the amount of the bonuses in question.

The minister clarified that the remaining payments are being withheld until it is determined if the tax responsibility lies with the individual players, the Ghana Football Association, or the nation as a whole. Once the tax issue is resolved, the necessary deductions will be applied, and the rest of the funds will be distributed to the players.

The Black Stars now focus on their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, where they will face Ivory Coast in Bouake before returning to Accra to play against The Gambia.