Randy Abbey defends Black Stars management World Cup bonuses

Executive Council Member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Dr. Randy Abbey, has defended the payment of bonuses to members of the Black Stars’ management during the World Cup, arguing that success should be rewarded just as individuals are held accountable for failure.

Speaking before the parliamentary select committee investigating the petition from the Save Ghana Football Demonstration held in February, Dr. Abbey emphasized the importance of recognizing those who contribute to the team's achievements.

“We pay a bonus for recognition of success. So success has been achieved, and we think that it ought to be rewarded. And so we identify those who are responsible for the success and then reward them. Is that not the case?” he stated.

Dr. Abbey further questioned the fairness of criticism, asking, “When the Black Stars fail to perform, what’s the first name that is mentioned? It’s the GFA president. People hold others responsible when there’s failure. Why should these individuals not be recognized when there’s success?”

He reiterated that if it’s acceptable to hold individuals accountable for poor performance, it’s only fair to reward them for success.

Ghana’s Black Stars management committee members reportedly received $100,000 each as bonuses after the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which has sparked controversy. However, the GFA denies that each member received such an amount. Critics argue that the remuneration is excessive compared to player bonuses, which are typically based on performance outcomes.