The Black Stars are heading to the “Ocean State”. Ghana have officially chosen Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island, as their team base camp for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In a move expected to be formally announced by Ocean State 2026 on Thursday, February 26, the four-time African champions will make the university’s elite athletic facilities their home away from home this summer.
Bryant University is no stranger to hosting sporting giants. For two decades, the campus served as the summer training ground for the New England Patriots, providing the foundation for one of the most successful eras in American football history.
The selection follows a series of rigorous inspections by FIFA officials. Bryant was featured in the official Base Camp Brochure, eventually beating out stiff competition to secure the Ghanaian delegation.
While Rhode Island will serve as their sanctuary, the Black Stars face a demanding travel schedule across the North American East Coast and into Canada.
The campaign kicks off on June 17, when Ghana travel to Toronto to face Panama. Following their opener, the squad returns to the Greater Boston area for a highly anticipated clash against England at the Boston Stadium in Foxborough on June 23.
The Black Stars will then conclude their Group L fixtures in Philadelphia, where they meet Croatia on June 27.
The fixture against England is expected to be a “home” game of sorts for the Ghanaians, given the stadium’s close proximity to their Smithfield headquarters.
The arrival of the Black Stars is expected to provide a significant boost to the Smithfield and greater Providence areas.
Beyond the prestige of hosting an international powerhouse, the move brings global media attention and travelling supporters to the region for the duration of the group stages.
Ghana, boasting a squad of European-based stars and emerging talent, will look to utilise Bryant’s world-class strength and conditioning facilities to find a competitive edge.
Source: Ekow Segu
