Providence, Rhode Island Confirmed as Black Stars’ Base Camp for 2026 World Cup
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially named Providence, Rhode Island, as the Black Stars’ Team Base Camp for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Bryant University designated as the squad’s primary training facility.
The decision means Ghana will set up camp in the Ocean State throughout the tournament, utilizing Bryant’s 43,000-square-foot field house alongside its modern training, recovery, and wellness complex. The university’s playing surfaces are overseen by the same groundskeeper responsible for maintaining the pitches at Boston Stadium, ensuring top-level preparation conditions.
Rhode Island officials have welcomed the announcement with enthusiasm.
“Rhode Island is honored to welcome The Black Stars,” said General Treasurer and Ocean State 2026 Chairman James Diossa. “They are a talented team with great depth and some young stars. It will be exciting to watch them make their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance and our state will be invested in their success knowing how they made Bryant University as their first choice in the selection process.”
Bryant University leadership also highlighted the global significance of hosting the four-time African champions.
“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,” said Bryant President Dr. Ross Gittell. “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.”
Governor Dan McKee underscored the broader economic and tourism benefits expected from Ghana’s presence in the state.
“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.”
While training sessions will remain closed to the public, the GFA is preparing community engagement initiatives targeting young footballers, with further details to be announced. Rhode Island Sports Commission Executive Director Jonathan Walker emphasised the legacy ambitions tied to the tournament.
“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.”
Bryant’s Vice President for Athletics and Recreation, Bill Smith, described the selection as a testament to the institution’s investment in excellence.
“Being selected as the Base Camp for Team Ghana underscores the caliber of Bryant’s campus, our commitment to excellence, and the intentional investments we’ve made to support high-performing student-athletes,” he said. “It reflects the strength of our integrated approach to academics, athletics, and wellness while creating a moment of pride for our community and a strong connection between Bryant Athletics and the global game.”
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley extended an open invitation to Ghanaian supporters and football fans worldwide.
“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.”
Congressman Gabe Amo also expressed excitement about the historic opportunity.
“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,” he 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.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19 across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Ghana, making their fifth appearance at the tournament, have been drawn in Group L and will face Panama in Toronto on June 17, England in Boston on June 23, and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27.
