The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has settled on Bryant University in Providence, Rhode Island as base for the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This came to light as officials of the state made statement to express happiness with the decision of the Ghanaian football-governing body.
“I’m excited to welcome the Ghana Black Stars to Rhode Island and thrilled that Bryant University will be the team’s Base Camp training site for their FIFA World Cup 2026 run,” Congressman Gabe Amo said.
“I hope they will take advantage of all our great state has to offer and I cannot wait to cheer on these talented athletes.”
“Today we announce that Ghana will be staying in Providence and we’d also like to extend an invitation to the fans and families to come to our city,” said Mayor Brett Smiley.
“We are committed to being a festive destination for soccer fans from around the world and look forward to announcing our fan experience plans.”
On his part, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee conceded that the gesture will put Rhode Island on the international map.
“We’re proud to welcome the Ghana Men’s National Team to Rhode Island,” said Governor McKee.
“Hosting this team highlights Rhode Island on the international stage and will help build on our record-breaking tourism numbers, bringing even more visitors to our state. We look forward to working with our partners in Massachusetts and across New England to ensure a safe, exciting, and memorable summer for players and fans alike.”
The Black Stars’ first match will be in Toronto, Canada but will play England and Croatia in Boston and Philadelphia respectively.
Training sessions are expected to be closed to the public but the team is expected to hold community programming for young players.
“We’re working hard to ensure that the FIFA World Cup leaves behind a legacy of passion for the sport and a commitment to growing the game of soccer in Rhode Island, partnering with the Black Stars will fuel these young players’ passion,” said the Executive Director of the Sports Commission of Rhode Island, Jonathan Walker.
Bryant University boasts of a 43,000-square-foot field house and state-of-the-art training, recovery, and wellness center.
The pitches are said to be maintained by the same groundskeeper who will be overseeing the pitches at Boston Stadium.
Bryant University President Dr. Ross Gittell said Ghana’s choice is a recognition of the “best-in-class” facilities at the school.
“Bryant University is honored to welcome the Ghana Men’s National Team and to serve as its training base for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” he said.
“It is a recognition of Bryant’s best-in-class facilities and the global appeal of our campus and university. We look forward to the partnerships, the visibility, and the enthusiasm that this opportunity will bring to Rhode Island, New England, and well beyond.”