Monday, June 8, 2026
Monday, June 8, 2026
Guyana Football Federation hails ‘transformative’ $6B budget allocation for sport
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has described the government’s latest $6B sport budget as a “strong signal” for the nation’s future, as the country continues its bid to become a regional leader in sport tourism.
The allocation, unveiled in the 2026 national budget, includes $1.3B specifically ring-fenced for the maintenance and upgrading of community grounds nationwide.
GFF President Wayne Forde praised the vision of President Dr Irfaan Ali and Sport Ministers Charles Ramson Jr and Steven Jacobs, noting that the investment could lead to a “lasting legacy” for young athletes.
The $6B commitment follows a year of heavy infrastructure spending, with five new international stadiums currently at 90% completion.
“The allocation is transformational,” Forde said in a statement. “There is now a real chance to apply these funds strategically across all sporting disciplines. We are confident this investment has the potential to deliver badly needed tangible outcomes.”
The GFF has reaffirmed its commitment to aligning with the government’s goals, focusing on structured youth and women’s football programmes alongside the modern infrastructure rollout.
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, in his budget address, reiterated that the government views sport as a critical economic driver.
“Sports is big business,” Dr Singh said. “We are committed to providing the enabling environment for our young athletes to take advantage and grab these opportunities with both hands.”
The GFF believes the synergy between the sport and youth budgets will create a modern “ecosystem” that transitions young Guyanese from community grounds into the world of professional sport and employment.
FULL STATEMENT BY GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION’S PRESIDENT, WAYNE FORDE:
