By Kwame Bediako
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially concluded its negotiations with Chinese broadcaster StarTimes regarding the renewal of its media broadcast rights, marking the end of a longstanding partnership. The previous deal, which covered broadcasting rights for Ghanaian football, expired at the end of the 2023/24 season. The decision to terminate talks comes after both parties failed to reach a mutual agreement on new terms earlier this year.
In an official statement, the GFA confirmed that discussions with StarTimes were formally halted in March 2025. The association cited the inability to agree on the renewal conditions as the primary reason for ending negotiations. The GFA emphasized its commitment to finding a new partner that aligns with its goals of transparency and fairness in broadcasting arrangements.
“The Ghana Football Association (GFA) wishes to inform its members, partners, and the general public that it officially ended all negotiations with StarTimes on the renewal of the Media Broadcast Rights agreement in March 2025,” the statement read.
The fallout from the breakdown of negotiations has revealed that StarTimes owes the GFA a significant sum of USD 842,173.36 from the previous contract. The association has taken legal steps, including engaging legal counsel, to recover the outstanding debt. The GFA has formally notified StarTimes of the debt and is actively pursuing recovery through legal channels.
“GFA officially notified StarTimes of the situation and is currently demanding an outstanding debt of USD 842,173.36 due the Association from the previous agreement,” the statement added.
Despite parting ways with StarTimes, the GFA reiterated its dedication to securing a new media rights partner that will deliver value to all stakeholders, including football clubs, fans and the broader football community. The association aims to ensure that future broadcasting rights arrangements are transparent and equitable.
