FIFA President Gianni Infantino has congratulated Ghana on sealing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and praised Black Stars supporters for the “colour, style and passion” they bring to the global stage.
His message followed Ghana’s 1â0 win over Comoros in Accra on Sunday, a result that booked the nation’s fifth appearance at the finals.
Infantino said Ghana’s return will enrich the expanded tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico and backed the team to emulate their famous run to the quarter-finals at South Africa 2010.
“Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history,” he said, adding that Ghanaian fans will inject unique energy into “the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 2026.”
The FIFA President’s video message lauded both players and supporters, describing qualification as a defining moment for Ghana and a lift for African football. He said the world is accustomed to Ghana’s vibrant match-day scenes and expects the same spirit to light up North America next year.
Infantino also looked ahead, expressing hope that a new generation of Black Stars will announce themselves on the world stage, just as the 2010 side did in becoming only the third African team to reach the last eight.
“We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarter-finals⦠in 2010,” he said.
For Ghana, Sunday’s victory capped a strong qualifying campaign and ends a tense wait to confirm their ticket. It continues a proud World Cup record that began with a memorable debut in 2006, followed by finals trips in 2010, 2014 and 2022.
The current squad will now pivot from qualification mode to tournament planning, with attention turning to logistics, friendlies and form ahead of next summer.
The Black Stars’ path will become clearer on 5 December when FIFA conducts the group-stage draw.
Seedings, potential rivals and travel schedules will follow soon after, allowing Ghana’s technical team to finalise preparations for a tournament that will span three countries and feature an expanded field.
Infantino closed his remarks by urging Ghanaians to enjoy the moment before turning to the work ahead. “But for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the fifth of December. See you all very soon. Well done. Congratulations.”
Ghana’s qualification rekindles memories of their 2010 heroics and offers the chance to write a new chapter on football’s biggest stage. With the nationwide celebrations in full flow and the draw date set, the focus shifts from the journey to the destination: a fifth World Cup and another opportunity to showcase Ghana’s football, culture and unmistakable support to a global audience.