Black Challenge Foreign-Based Stars Threaten to Boycott Amputee World Cup Over Unpaid Bonuses
Ghana’s national amputee football team is facing a potential crisis ahead of the upcoming Amputee World Cup in Costa Rica, as several foreign-based players have declared their intention to boycott the tournament over long-standing unpaid bonuses.
The players, who form the backbone of the team known as the Black Challenge, say they are owed bonuses from multiple competitions, including their triumphant outings at the African Amputee Football Cup of Nations (AAFCON) in Egypt, the 2023 African Para Games hosted in Ghana, and the Amputee Nations Cup in Tanzania.
Speaking on behalf of the disgruntled players, one of the team’s professional stars Mubarak Mohammed expressed their frustration, stating:
“We went to Tanzania to win a trophy for Ghana, Ghana hosted the Para Games and we won, and we went on to win the AAFCON in Egypt. These victories brought pride to the nation, yet our sacrifices remain unrewarded.”
He continued:
“The World Cup is coming up in Costa Rica and we, the professional players who ply our trade abroad, have decided not to participate if our bonuses are not paid. We urge the Minister to take this issue seriously and ensure that what is due us is honoured.”
The players argue that their efforts, which have led to a historic rise in Ghana’s status in amputee football, deserve not just applause but tangible support and commitment from the authorities.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports is yet to officially respond to the players’ demands, but the looming boycott raises concerns about Ghana’s preparations for the global showpiece in Costa Rica.
