By Archie Ayouba
Liberia’s quest to secure a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will require a significant financial commitment, with authorities estimating that between US$5 million and US$10 million is needed to adequately support the national football team throughout the qualification campaign.
The disclosure was made by Luther Tarpeh, Chairman of the Lone Star National Team Mobilization and Fundraising Committee, during an appearance before the House of Representatives. Tarpeh highlighted the numerous financial challenges confronting the national team, warning that inadequate funding could undermine Liberia’s chances of ending its prolonged absence from Africa’s premier football tournament.
According to Tarpeh, the Lone Star is currently grappling with outstanding financial obligations, including unpaid hotel bills in four countries. He noted that player welfare and logistical arrangements have also been affected by funding constraints, creating difficult conditions for the team during international assignments.
“The resources are needed to cover essential aspects of the campaign, including travel, accommodation, training camps, player welfare, and other operational logistics necessary for a successful qualification effort,” Tarpeh explained.
The revelation prompted concern among lawmakers, who acknowledged the importance of providing the national team with the support needed to compete effectively on the continental stage. In response, the House of Representatives established a special committee tasked with mobilizing support and identifying potential funding sources to assist the qualification campaign.
Liberia has not qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations since 2002, making the upcoming qualification campaign one of the country’s most significant football ambitions in recent years. Sports stakeholders believe that adequate financial backing could play a critical role in enhancing the team’s competitiveness and increasing its chances of securing a coveted place at the 2027 tournament.
