The Ghana Football Association (GFA) signed a five-year partnership agreement with X1, an elite performance beverage brand, on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the GFA headquarters in Accra.
Under the deal, X1 becomes the Official Performance Partner of the Black Stars and the Division One League Super Cup. The company will provide annual financial support and products over the five-year period to enhance performance, logistics, and operational efficiency across multiple levels of the game.
GFA President Kurt E.S. Okraku described the agreement as a pivotal step in the Association’s push to transform Ghana football.
“Today marks a defining moment in our journey to transform and elevate Ghana football. It is with great pride and optimism that we officially announce a landmark five-year partnership between the Ghana Football Association and X1 — now the Performance Partner of the Black Stars and the Division One League Super Cup,” Okraku said.
He said X1’s role will be critical as Ghana intensifies preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“As Performance Partner of the Black Stars, X1 Energy will play a vital role in enhancing the preparation, performance, and overall well-being of our senior national team. At a time when we are intensifying our efforts on the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this support could not have come at a better moment,” he added.
Okraku also emphasized the partnership’s impact on domestic football.“Equally significant is X1 Energy Drink’s commitment to domestic football. By partnering the Division One League Super Cup, they are directly investing in the foundation of our game — the clubs, players, and communities that form the heartbeat of Ghana football.”
“This five-year partnership goes beyond branding and visibility. It includes the provision of essential logistics and performance-enhancing support systems that will strengthen our operational capacity across multiple levels of the game,” he noted.
Richard Zhang, Global Lead of Hoshi International, said the deal signals the start of a purposeful partnership.
“This is not just a partnership announcement, but the beginning of a shared journey — one built on ambition, excellence, and a deep commitment to the growth of Ghanaian football. Today, X1 is proud to stand here as the Official Performance Partner of the Black Stars and the Division One League Super Cup,” Zhang said.
He outlined X1’s dual focus on elite and grassroots football. “Over the next five years, X1 will work closely with the Ghana Football Association to support and motivate the Black Stars in their pursuit of excellence on the continental and global stage, while also powering the Division One League Super Cup.”
On the brand’s approach to athlete involvement, Zhang added: “They are not just faces of the brand — they are part of building it. That reflects something deeper: real belief, real African ownership, and a real commitment to inspiring the next generation.”
“If we truly believe in ‘Be the NeXt One,’ then we have to support talent not only when it becomes famous, but while it is still growing,” he said.
