Organisers of the annual Democracy Cup have announced that the 2026 champions will play English Premier League side Sunderland in an international friendly match as part of a new partnership agreement.
The announcement was made on Wednesday night at Parliament’s D.F. Annan Auditorium in Accra during a ceremony to honour sponsors and partners of the 2025 edition of the competition.
The deal with Sunderland marks a major milestone in the tournament’s growth, reflecting its increasing international recognition. The English club maintains a strong connection with Ghana through former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan, who spent just over a season with Sunderland during his playing career.
Breaking the news at the event, Henry Asante Twum, who moderated the ceremony, said the partnership was made possible through the efforts of Primeval Media Limited—organisers of the tournament—and the Office of the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin.
“Through the efforts of the organisers, Primeval Media Limited, and the Office of the Right Honourable Speaker, we have secured a partnership with Sunderland Football Club in England. So, the winner of the next edition will travel to England,” Asante Twum announced.
During the event, Sunderland presented a framed number 3 jersey to Speaker Alban Bagbin, symbolising his position as the third most powerful figure in Ghana’s political hierarchy.