(This article is dedicated to young Liberian sports writer Amadu J. Kromah)
George Weah, Liberia’s most celebrated footballer and former president, remains a figure of contradictions when it comes to his legacy in football development. His impact on the sport in Liberia is undeniable, but his tenure as president (2018–2024) did not reflect the same passion and investment in football that he demonstrated as a player. While he rightfully claims to have built one of the greatest national teams in Liberia’s history, there are critical questions about what he could have done differently to ensure a lasting football legacy.
Weah’s Contributions as a Player
During his playing days in Europe, Weah was known for using his personal funds to support Liberia’s national team, the Lone Star. He financed training camps, covered travel expenses, and ensured players received allowances. His generosity and commitment led Liberia to qualify for two African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, in 1996 and 2002. However, much of the money he spent was reimbursed, mainly through sponsorship funds from Italian sportswear brand Diadora.
Additionally, under the leadership of President Samuel Kanyon Doe, the national team enjoyed significant government support. At the recommendation of legendary coach Josiah Nagbe Johnson, Doe sponsored a training camp in Brazil, a move that significantly enhanced the team’s performance. This level of government-backed football development was absent during Weah’s presidency, raising questions about his priorities in sports.
Weah’s Missed Opportunities as President
As the only African player to have won the prestigious Ballon d’Or (1995), Weah had a unique opportunity to transform football in Liberia. However, his presidency largely failed to produce the structural and financial investments needed to develop young talents and elevate the country’s football infrastructure. Here’s what he could have done differently:
1. Investment in Grassroots Football Development
Weah could have established a national football academy to nurture young talents across Liberia. Countries like Senegal and Ghana have produced world-class players because of structured youth development programs supported by both private and government investments.
A robust school football program could have ensured that young players receive formal education alongside football training, preparing them for both professional sports and life beyond the pitch.
2. Upgrading Football Infrastructure
Liberia still lacks modern stadiums, training facilities, and youth development centers. As a former world-class player, Weah could have leveraged his global connections to secure funding for a state-of-the-art national football center, similar to what Didier Drogba has done in Côte d’Ivoire.
Renovating the Antoinette Tubman Stadium (ATS) and Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex to meet FIFA standards could have positioned Liberia as a competitive force in West African football.
3. Strengthening the National League
The Liberian First Division League struggles with poor organization, low wages, and lack of sponsorships. Weah could have introduced policies to attract private sector investment, ensuring clubs have the resources to pay players, improve coaching, and build professional structures.
A well-funded national league would have helped retain local talent rather than forcing young players to seek opportunities in lower-tier European and Asian leagues.
4. Developing a Clear Football Policy
Countries with successful football programs have national policies guiding the sport’s development. Weah’s administration could have worked with the Liberia Football Association (LFA) to create a 10-year football development plan, outlining goals for youth development, infrastructure, and international participation.
5. Utilizing International Connections
As a global football icon, Weah had access to influential figures in FIFA, CAF, and European clubs. He could have facilitated partnerships between Liberian clubs and European teams, allowing young Liberian players to train in elite football academies abroad.
Collaborating with FIFA to establish coaching and referee development programs would have strengthened football at all levels in Liberia.
6. Revitalizing the Lone Star
Under Weah’s presidency, the national team did not receive the level of support he himself enjoyed as a player. Investing in better coaching staff, scouting networks, and regular training camps would have improved the team’s performance and ensured consistent qualification for AFCON and FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Providing performance-based incentives to players and coaches could have boosted morale and commitment to national duties.
A Legacy of What Could Have Been
While George Weah remains Liberia’s greatest footballer, his presidency failed to build a lasting football legacy. His international stardom gave him a platform to revolutionize Liberian football, but his tenure lacked the necessary commitment to infrastructure, youth development, and policy implementation.
Now, as he reflects on his time in office, the question remains: Did George Weah truly pass the stage of football development, or did he miss an opportunity to shape the future of Liberia’s greatest sport?
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