In the wake of the sudden withdrawal of betPawa as the title sponsor for the upcoming 2023/24 Ghana Premier League season, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) remains resolute in fulfilling its promises to increase prize money for the participating clubs.
At the Ordinary Congress held in Kumasi last July, GFA President Kurt Simeon-Okraku unveiled plans for a significant boost in prize money and participation fees for league clubs.
The league champions for the 2023/24 season were set to receive GH¢500,000, marking a 60% increase over the GH¢300,000 awarded to Medeama SC for winning the 2022/23 Premier League title.
Despite the setback caused by betPawa‘s abrupt withdrawal, resulting in an anticipated annual revenue shortfall of $2 million, GFA General Secretary Prosper Harrison Addo reassures that all financial commitments made to the 18 premiership clubs will be honored.
“Have you heard the clubs complain anywhere about funds? They are not complaining because we have met them, and they know what they are getting despite the sponsorship withdrawal. There’s no need to panic.
All financial commitments will be fulfilled,” stated Mr. Addo in response to concerns about potential financial strains on the clubs.
Mr. Simeon-Okraku, during the GFA congress, not only pledged increased prize money but also introduced a comprehensive financial support package for clubs.
This included a GH¢50,000 allocation to establish youth teams, GH¢300,000 to support officiating fees at the regional level, among other initiatives.
Highlighting the financial stability of the football governing body, Mr. Addo pointed to the existing contract with broadcast partner StarTimes.
He affirmed that the resources from this contract would be more than sufficient to fulfill the association’s financial obligations to league clubs, referees, and initiatives supporting the development of women’s football.
“We still have the StarTimes deal, and the clubs are getting whatever percentage is due to them in that regard.
So, like I said earlier, there is no need to worry about how the FA is going to honor promises made to clubs, referees, regional football associations, or women’s football development,” assured Mr. Addo.
Despite the challenges posed by the withdrawal of betPawa, the GFA remains committed to maintaining the financial integrity of the Ghana Premier League and supporting the growth of football in the country.
