Take a look at Ghana’s presidents and the football teams they back, from local powerhouses like Hearts of Oak and Kotoko to European giants like Tottenham Hotspur.
Ghana takes pride in its football heritage, so it’s no surprise that its presidents are avid supporters of the game.
During his rule, Ghana’s founder and first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, founded his own party, the Convention People’s Party.
On August 19, 1962, the Real Republicans memorably tied 3-3 with Spanish giants Real Madrid at the Accra Sports Stadium.
However, over the years, and especially in this fourth republic, little is known about the teams that have supported the current president.
Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia recently expressed his pleasure following Tottenham Hotspur’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final on May 21, 2025. The match was played at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, Spain.
Dr. Bawumia, a well-known Tottenham fan, turned to his official Facebook page to congratulate the triumph. He wrote:
Yeeeees! Glory to @SpursOfficial. Congratulations to all Spurs fans.
His post was received with joy from fans all across the world, as the team won its first European trophy since 1984.
Some fans reacted, calling for former President Nana Akufo-Addo, a Spurs fan, to respond.
So, except these two statesmen, whose teams do other Ghanaian presidents support?
Pulse Ghana showcases Ghana’s presidents and the teams they support.
Jerry John Rawlings – Hearts of Oak (Flt. Lft.). J. J. Rawlings
Former President Rawlings is thought to have been a major supporter of Accra Hearts of Oak, however he has never publicly stated it. Stories about him and the club frequently made headlines, including one in which a player supposedly refused to shake his hand, believing he brought ill luck to the rival team. He also had a deep interest in boxing and backed legendary fighter Azumah Nelson.
John Agyekum Kufuor, Asante Kotoko
Former President John Kufuor was not only a fan. He formerly served as chairman of Kumasi Asante Kotoko before becoming president. He is one of the few presidents who has had a direct involvement with Ghanaian football, and he has always supported the Porcupine Warriors.
John Evans Atta Mills, Hearts of Oak
The late President, Professor Atta Mills, enjoyed sports. He played hockey before going on to work as a sports administration. He also served as the Board Chairman of Accra Hearts of Oak. Even while serving as president, he apparently contributed financially to the club. His allegiance to the Phobians was widely known.
John Dramani Mahama, Real Tamale United (RTU)
Though not as visibly involved in football as others, current President Mahama is thought to follow Real Tamale United, the premier team in Ghana’s Northern Region.
Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo – Tottenham Hotspur
Former President Akufo-Addo is a known Tottenham Hotspur supporter. Though there is no definite local team related to him, many believe he supports Kotoko. However, his passion for Spurs dates back to his time in England.
He was spotted celebrating their 2019 Champions League semi-final victory and was even said to have flown to Spain for the final.
