Ghanaian clubs are set to enjoy a financial windfall from the FIFA Club Benefits Programme (CBP), as world football’s governing body has announced a record USD 355 million will be distributed to clubs worldwide for the release of players during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the final tournament.
In a major policy shift, FIFA confirmed that for the first time in the programme’s history, clubs releasing players for the qualifiers will also be directly compensated. Previously, only clubs whose players featured in the final tournament received payments.
This change means that Ghana Premier League clubs such as Hearts of Oak, Asante Kotoko, Medeama SC, Dreams FC, Nations FC, and others who supply players to the Black Stars during the qualification campaign will benefit financially.
For example, Hearts goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who has earned call-ups for recent qualifiers, represents one of several cases where Ghanaian clubs could benefit — even if their players do not make the final World Cup squad.
The initiative marks a fairer and more inclusive redistribution of resources, directly recognizing the contributions of local clubs in developing talent for the international stage. For Ghanaian clubs, this financial support could prove vital in strengthening infrastructure, improving player welfare, and investing in youth development.
At the last edition in Qatar 2022, USD 209 million was shared among 440 clubs worldwide. The newly expanded model now ensures that Ghana’s domestic clubs will gain a greater share of resources for their role in supporting national team football.
