A high-powered delegation from English Premier League side Sunderland AFC, led by Owner and Chairman Mr. Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, paid a courtesy call on the Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Bagbin, Speaker of the Ghanaian Parliament, in Accra on Wednesday.
The visit follows a recent trip by the Speaker to the club’s headquarters in the United Kingdom, as part of ongoing discussions toward a strategic partnership centred on the annual Democracy Cup—an initiative championed by the Speaker.
Addressing a gathering that included ministers and chief executive officers of corporate institutions, Mr. Louis-Dreyfus noted that the delegation was reciprocating the Speaker’s earlier visit and strengthening the club’s ties with Ghana.
“We have over the years had different connections with Ghana, and it’s time to institutionalise the relationship for the mutual benefit of both sides,” he said.
He recalled that Ghanaian footballers such as Asamoah Gyan, Sulley Muntari, and John Mensah have all played for Sunderland AFC and made significant impacts. “We appreciate their contributions, and we see this relationship as a step towards a better future,” Mr. Louis-Dreyfus added.
Sunderland’s Commercial Manager, Mr. Scott McCubbin, stressed the need to formalise the partnership, noting that Ghana stands to benefit immensely, particularly in the areas of youth development and women’s football.
Rt. Hon. Bagbin welcomed the delegation’s responsiveness, describing it as a clear sign of commitment to building a lasting relationship. He emphasised that the engagement extends beyond football.
“This visit goes beyond football. There are many business opportunities for us as a country to explore. That is why we carefully selected participants for this important meeting,” the Speaker said. “I hope the ministers and members of the business community will take advantage of the meeting and explore available opportunities.”
He added that the English Premier League side would also explore ways to support and promote the annual Democracy Cup. “Football is the most popular sport in the country, and this relationship will help strengthen its growth in Ghana. We are looking forward to a deeper relationship with Sunderland to help us in youth development and women’s football,” Rt. Hon. Bagbin stated.
As a gesture of goodwill, the Speaker presented each member of the delegation with a specially made fugu (traditional Ghanaian smock).
