Black Stars players deserve better travel conditions – Kofi Adams

Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams says Black Stars players should not travel in economy class, stressing that comfort is essential for their performance.

His statement follows President John Mahama’s directive barring newly appointed ministers from first-class travel as part of cost-cutting measures.

While acknowledging the policy’s importance, Adams maintained that national team players require better travel conditions to perform at their best.

“You can’t put players in economy class because they rely on their legs for performance, and they need enough space to stretch,” Adams said on TV3 Sports Station.

“You don’t expect them to squeeze in economy and then deliver on the pitch. If it’s a short flight, like from Accra to Kumasi, it’s manageable, but for long trips, at least business class is necessary.”

His comments come as the Black Stars prepare for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Ghana will host Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on March 21 before travelling to Morocco to face Madagascar on March 24.

The debate over travel arrangements for national teams has been ongoing, with concerns about player welfare and performance.

Adams’ stance signals a push for better conditions for the Black Stars, reinforcing the need for a balance between cost-cutting and competitive excellence.