A delegation from Ghana’s Parliament has visited English football club Sunderland A.F.C. as part of efforts to deepen international collaboration linked to the Democracy Cup, an initiative aimed at promoting civic engagement through sports.

The delegation was led by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, who founded the Democracy Cup to bridge the gap between Parliament and citizens while celebrating Ghana’s democratic progress through football.

Members of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Youth and Sports joined the Speaker during the visit, which sought to explore new opportunities for the tournament and strengthen partnerships that could benefit Ghanaian football clubs and players.

The Democracy Cup has gradually evolved into a symbolic sporting event that highlights the role of football in promoting national unity, youth engagement and democratic values.

Since the tournament was introduced, two major clubs in Ghana’s top flight have lifted the trophy. Asante Kotoko S.C. won the inaugural edition, while Accra Hearts of Oak S.C. emerged champions in the subsequent competition.

One of the key features of the initiative is the opportunity it provides for the winning club to visit an international partner club, allowing players and administrators to gain exposure to global football systems and professional standards.

Following their victory in the maiden edition, Asante Kotoko travelled to Washington in the United States as part of the programme.

With the new collaboration involving Sunderland, the winners of the 2026 Democracy Cup will have the opportunity to visit the United Kingdom, further expanding the tournament’s international reach.

Meanwhile, last year’s champions, Hearts of Oak, are expected to play a friendly match against a Premier League club in South Africa later this year as part of the exposure programme linked to the competition.

Officials say the initiative is designed not only to provide international experience for Ghanaian clubs but also to showcase the talents of local players on a broader stage while strengthening Ghana’s global sporting profile.

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Youth and Sports delegation included the Chairman, Henry Ernest Norgbey, the Ranking Member, Vincent Ekow Assifuah, and committee member Lawrencia Djowornu.

The visit to Sunderland forms part of broader efforts to use sport as a tool for international cooperation while advancing the objectives of the Democracy Cup initiative.