Sports

Kenya rugby sevens star Patrick Odongo has been drafted into the inaugural Rugby Premier League, set to take place in India from June 1 to June 15. The tournament, which features a mix of international rugby greats and India’s best, promises to redefine the future of rugby sevens.

The Football Kenya Federation Premier League delivered another thrilling weekend of action, with teams battling for crucial points in matchweek 26. Ulinzi Stars were edged by Sofapaka, Mathare United triumphed in a five-goal thriller against Posta Rangers, and Kakamega Homeboyz stunned AFC Leopards in a hard-fought 2-1 victory. Here's a recap of the weekend’s exciting encounters.

Shujaa reached their first main cup semifinal of the 2025 HSBC SVNS season after defeating France 10–7 in a tense Pool B clash at the Singapore Sevens, just hours after a convincing 17–7 win over Ireland.

Shujaa began their Singapore Sevens campaign with a confident 17–7 win over Ireland, as tries from Nygel Amaitsa, Kevin Wekesa, and Patrick Odongo set them on course for a potential semi-final place in the newly formatted tournament.

Rising Stars will be making their debut in the tournament, having been drawn in Group C alongside reigning champions Senegal, 2017 winners Zambia, and fellow debutants Sierra Leone.

Mwanja has made only one change to the squad that won the first and second legs of the series, which were held in Cape Town, South Africa, on March 1-2 and March 7-8.

Harambee Stars have dropped three places in the latest FIFA Rankings, now sitting 111th globally. Meanwhile, Harambee Starlets made a historic leap, climbing seven places to 142nd after their landmark win against Tunisia.

Kenyan referee Dickens Mimisa has been selected among 14 African officials for the 2025 AFCON U20 tournament in Egypt. The 33-year-old, who recently officiated the Mashemeji Derby, continues to rise in the ranks of African refereeing.

Gor Mahia Election Board has confirmed the date for the club’s elections on April 13, 2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium Basketball Gymnasium. The board has also announced that four key positions—Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary General, and Honorary Treasurer are now vacant, with applications open to eligible members.

The highly-rated right-back has finally achieved his dream of turning professional and joining a European club after several failed attempts

Njogu stepped down as head coach after the team suffered a 3-0 defeat to Shabana FC, marking the latest change in leadership at the club.

This marks the first meeting between the two sides in the competition, with both teams aiming for a strong start in what promises to be a competitive group.

The top three winners will be required to transfer all intellectual property rights to FKF upon signing a declaration form.

Misoi provided a urine sample during an out-of-competition test on November 22, 2024, in Kaptagat, where Furosemide was initially detected.

Major League Soccer has now decided to take full control of matchday security and Cheuko will only be permitted in the locker room and mixed zones.

AFC Leopards captain Lewis Bandi and Gor Mahia skipper Geoffrey Ochieng' have praised fans for filling Nyayo National Stadium during the 96th Mashemeji Derby. The match ended in a goalless draw, but both captains credited the packed stands for inspiring their teams’ performances. Coaches Fred Ambani and Sinisa Mihic also shared their thoughts on the intense encounter.

The tournament, scheduled to run from April 1 to April 14, will bring together 24 teams from across the continent, all eyeing the prestigious title.

The Kariakoo Derby and the Mashemeji Derby are among East Africa’s most storied football rivalries, each carrying decades of history, passion, and fierce competition. However, while Simba SC and Yanga SC have leveraged financial stability and national appeal to grow their dominance in Tanzanian football, AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia continue to grapple with structural and financial challenges. This article explores how these two rivalries compare in history, fan culture, and commercial success.

AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia played out a tense goalless draw in the 96th league edition of the Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium. Despite both teams creating chances, neither side could break the deadlock in a match that saw moments of attacking intent, defensive resilience, and rising tempers.

Gor Mahia are currently third in the league with 42 points, trailing Kenya Police (45 points) and leaders (45 points). AFC Leopards sit fifth with 36 points.

The FKF Premier League resumed with intense battles across the league as teams fought for crucial points. Tusker climbed to the summit after a hard-fought win over Bidco United, while Bandari ended their winless run with a vital victory against Ulinzi Stars. Nairobi City Stars, meanwhile, earned a draw against Kariobangi Sharks, keeping their survival hopes alive.

Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic has shared his intention to settle in Kenya after his contract ends, citing the country’s peaceful environment and vibrant culture. During a lively press conference at Nyayo National Stadium, Mihic also made a surprising admission about his lack of familiarity with fellow Croatian coach Zdravko Logarusic, sparking discussion among journalists.

Kevin Wekesa's second-minute try, which Nygel Amaitsa converted, gave Shujaa a 7-5 lead at halftime.

Kenya U20 head coach Salim Babu has named a 35-man provisional squad for the upcoming TotalEnergies U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to begin on April 27, 2025, in Egypt. The Rising Stars, drawn in Group C, will face defending champions Senegal, Zambia, and Sierra Leone as they aim to make an impact on the continental stage.

AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia coaches and captains have urged fans to maintain peace ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo National Stadium. With tensions high and title stakes in play, both teams are preparing for a fierce battle while calling for calm among supporters.

Matasi was provisionally suspended for 90 days on Thursday after videos emerged online, raising concerns over possible match-fixing.

The loss dropped Shujaa to second place in Pool C, with four points, behind Great Britain, who lead the pool with six points.

Wanyama, 33, signed with Dunfermline Athletic on Wednesday, marking his return to Scotland, where he previously played for Celtic under Lennon's management.

Egypt will host the 2025 U20 AFCON after Ivory Coast withdrew as hosts, CAF confirmed on Tuesday. The tournament, set to run from April 27 to May 18, will feature 12 teams, including debutants Kenya.

Kenya’s rugby sevens teams, Shujaa and Lionesses, face defining moments in their respective campaigns as they gear up for crucial tournaments in their quest for survival and promotion. Shujaa battles to retain their HSBC SVNS Series status with back-to-back Hong Kong and Singapore Sevens, while the Lionesses aim to maintain their top-four position in the World Rugby Seven Challenger Series as they head to Krakow.

Patrick Matasi has been provisionally suspended for 90 days as the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) investigates allegations of match manipulation.

She is Africa’s most decorated Olympian of all time. She won seven medals across the 2004 Athens Games and the 2008 Beijing Games.

A video, which has sparked widespread outrage on social media, appears to show Matasi listening and nodding in agreement as an unidentified individual, believed to be a recruiter, gives instructions on the next moves.

Kenya’s U20 national football team, the Rising Stars, are pushing ahead with their preparations for the 2025 AFCON U20 tournament despite fresh uncertainty over the competition’s venue. The tournament was set to be held in Ivory Coast, but the West African nation has withdrawn as hosts, leaving CAF scrambling to find a replacement. Despite this setback, head coach Salim Babu remains confident in his team’s readiness as they prepare for their historic debut.

AFC Leopards will be out for revenge when they face arch-rivals Gor Mahia in the Mashemeji Derby this Sunday at Nyayo National Stadium. With just one win in their last nine league meetings, Ingwe are eager to turn the tide against K’Ogalo in the 96th edition of Kenya’s biggest football rivalry.

The California Desert Turf Grounds feature nine seating stands, each named in honour of a legend or founding member who has played a pivotal role in the local football and entertainment scene.

He clarified that renovations have reduced Nyayo Stadium's official capacity to 22,000. While the regular sitting area can accommodate 18,000 fans and the VIP section 1,400, ticket sales had to be restricted to comply with Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations.

Coe confirmed that World Athletics would implement a one-time cheek swab or dry blood test, which he described as non-invasive, in an effort to ensure fairness in women’s competition.

The pair, once among the most powerful figures in global football, were cleared of fraud at the Extraordinary Appeals Chamber of the Swiss Criminal Court in the town of Muttenz, near Basel.

His arrival has brought a fresh perspective to the national team, highlighted by the introduction of new players, particularly Mohammed Bajaber and Wilson Lenkupae, whom McCarthy brought on as substitutes against The Gambia. They rewarded him with history by scoring on their national team debuts.

Gabon edged Kenya 2-1 in a crucial international qualifier, but the result told only part of the story. While Gabon coach Mouyoma Thierry admitted his side was fortunate to win, Kenya’s Benni McCarthy remained upbeat, promising to build a team Kenyans can be proud of.

Notable inclusions in the lineup are Johnstone Omurwa, William Lekumpae, Timothy Ouma, Mohammed Bajaber, and left-back Erick Ouma, who returns to strengthen the defence.

Gabon started the game aggressively, putting Kenya under pressure early on. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's goal in the 16th minute validated their efforts.

Two-time WRC champion Kalle Rovanpera was forced to retire on Sunday morning due to an electrical issue with his Toyota, putting a dent in his championship hopes. He now sits 57 points behind Evans.

The excitement around the fixture has been palpable, with the Football Kenya Federation announcing that tickets for the match are sold out,

Elfyn Evans took a commanding lead in the 2025 Safari Rally after a dominant performance in Saturday’s stages in Naivasha. The Toyota Gazoo Racing driver capitalised on tricky conditions to build a comfortable gap over teammate Kalle Rovanperä, who struggled with punctures. With just five stages remaining on Sunday, Evans is closing in on his first-ever Safari Rally victory, but the unpredictable terrain means the battle is far from over.

Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma has warned his side to expect a tough battle against Kenya in Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium. With Gabon aiming to strengthen their position in Group F and Kenya seeking to revive their campaign, Mouyouma insists his team is prepared for the challenge, unfazed by the home crowd. Meanwhile, captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set to return, eyeing a historic World Cup qualification for his country.

We urge fans who have not bought tickets to watch matches on television. KBC will broadcast the match for free

The country's initial five-year agreement with the WRC Promoter concludes this year, but an extension was secured for an additional year until 2026.

Harambee Stars are set to return to competitive home action for the first time since 2021 as they take on Gabon in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. With captain Michael Olunga emphasising the team’s unity and attacking mindset, and FKF assuring fans of a well-organised matchday experience, anticipation is high for a thrilling encounter.

Harambee Stars came from behind twice to secure a thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Abidjan. Coach Benni McCarthy hailed his team’s resilience, as substitutes Mohamed Bajaber and William Wilson scored crucial goals to snatch a dramatic point.

Harambee Stars staged a dramatic comeback to force a 3-3 draw against Gambia in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Thursday night in Abidjan. A stoppage-time goal from debutant William Wilson salvaged a point for Kenya in a match that saw both teams trade blows in a frenetic second half.

Born in 1983 in Harare, Zimbabwe, Coventry is the most decorated African Olympian, having won multiple Olympic medals and broken several world records.

Harambee Stars return to action on Thursday night under new head coach Benni McCarthy, who is set to take charge of his first match at the helm. With limited preparation time, Kenya faces Gambia at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, aiming to reignite their World Cup qualifying hopes.

Coventry, who is also Zimbabwe's Minister of Sport, Art, and Recreation, also became the first African to hold the prestigious position after winning the elections held in Costa Navarino (Greece).

This follows a ruling by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) regarding their abandoned match against Mara Sugar.

Parking at the stadium will cost Sh300 and only those who will have bought their tickets in advance will be allowed to park inside the stadium.

Bus and lorry drivers have been directed to refrain from obstructing traffic along the Naivasha-Nakuru Road to ensure smooth movement and avoid congestion.

Rovanpera’s initial run through the rough and rocky 5.16km warm-up stage saw his Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 lead the pack, clocking 1.6 seconds ahead of Thierry Neuville’s Hyundai i20 N Rally1.

Gor Mahia Football Club has officially scheduled its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for April 13, 2025, at the Basketball Arena, Nyayo National Stadium. A key highlight of the meeting will be the long-overdue club elections, which have been delayed for months, sparking leadership disputes. With the Sports Disputes Tribunal (SDT) having ruled that the Executive Committee’s mandate expired in August 2024, all eyes are now on whether the club will finally transition to new leadership.

Captain Michael Olunga expressed optimism while emphasising the need for caution, noting that this is their first assignment of the year.

Football fans can now grab their tickets for Kenya’s crucial World Cup Qualifier against Gabon, set for March 23 at Nyayo Stadium. FKF has rolled out a digital ticketing system, with prices set at Ksh 1,000 for VIP and Ksh 300 for regular.

Reigning World Rally Champion Thierry Neuville has arrived in Kenya ahead of the third round of the 2025 WRC season, the iconic Safari Rally Kenya. With his eyes set on defending his title, the Belgian driver is determined to conquer the unforgiving terrains of Naivasha and Nakuru as he chases his first-ever win on African soil.

Kenya will be looking to strengthen their qualification bid with positive results in these two crucial fixtures.

Sofapaka CEO Ronald Okoth has unveiled the club’s long-term strategy, focusing on recruiting young, inexperienced players and handing them their Kenya Premier League (KPL) debut. This approach is aimed at nurturing raw talent into marketable stars while building a stable squad for the future.

Uganda Women U17 coach Sheryl Botes has praised her fellow South African, Benni McCarthy, for accepting the role of Harambee Stars head coach. Botes believes McCarthy's appointment is a step forward for South African coaches seeking opportunities beyond their borders.

Junior Starlets coach Mildred Cheche hailed her team's preparation and execution after a 3-0 victory over Uganda Women U17 secured a 5-0 aggregate win in the 2025 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup qualifiers. Uganda coach Sheryl Botes conceded Kenya's superior quality as the Starlets advanced to face Cameroon in the final qualifying round.

Cameroon will be haunted by a history that backs the Junior Starlets to deliver another memorable chapter in the story of women's youth football in East Africa.

Having secured a comfortable 2-0 victory in the first leg in Kampala last weekend, the Kenyan girls only needed to avoid defeat at home to progress to the final qualification round.

Kenya's Junior Starlets are set to face Uganda in the second leg of the 2025 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup Second Qualifying Round at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. With a 2-0 lead from the first leg in Kampala, the Starlets are eyeing a spot in the final round against Cameroon.

Kariobangi Sharks outclassed Mathare United in the Slum Derby with a 3-1 victory, while Kenya Police continued their title push with a commanding win over Murang’a Seal. Here’s a roundup of all the weekend's KPL action.

Defending Enterprise Cup champions Kabras Sugar will have the chance to retain their title after defeating KCB Rugby 25-21 in a thrilling semi-final clash at the ASK Kakamega Showground. The victory sets up a final showdown against Menengai Oilers on April 19, 2025, at the RFUEA Grounds.

The Harambee Stars camp is in high spirits after new head coach Benni McCarthy led his second training session at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. The team is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against The Gambia and Gabon later this month.

Former world half-marathon record-holder Kibiwott Kandie has been provisionally suspended for “evading, refusing or failing to submit to sample collection,” the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has confirmed. The 28-year-old Kenyan, who set the world record in 2020, now faces an uncertain future as investigations continue.

Nairobi City Stars' struggles in the FKF Premier League continued after they fell to a 2-0 defeat against Sofapaka at Dandora Stadium on Friday afternoon. A first-half strike from Jack Ong'anya and a late header from Bramwel Simiyu sealed City Stars' fate, leaving them rooted at the bottom of the table.

Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge has confirmed his participation in the 2025 Sydney Marathon, set for August 31. The race, now an official World Marathon Major (WMM), will be Kipchoge’s first in Oceania. His inclusion is expected to raise the event’s global profile as he seeks to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 season.

Kenya's journey at the 2025 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships came to a bitter end after veteran fighter Elizabeth Andiego suffered a controversial referee stoppage in her quarterfinal bout against China's Wang Xiaomeng. Andiego’s elimination sealed Kenya’s winless campaign in Nis, Serbia, leaving the boxing fraternity with tough lessons to ponder ahead of the next global event.

Sofapaka midfielder Edward Omondi has earned his first-ever call-up to the Harambee Stars' provisional squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. The 22-year-old attributes his selection to the support from his teammates and aims to learn from coach Benni McCarthy as he fights for a spot in the final squad

Kimanzi’s leadership and expertise will play a pivotal role in advancing our development agenda and shaping the future of Kenyan football.

Kenya’s struggles at the 2025 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships deepened as Pauline Chege and Lencer Akinyi suffered Round of 16 eliminations in Serbia. With only team captain Liz Andiego remaining in the competition, Kenya’s hopes now rest on her upcoming quarterfinal bout.

The Junior Starlets are determined to wrap up their FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Second Qualifying Round campaign in style as they face Uganda in the return leg at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. With a 2-0 advantage from the first leg in Kampala, key players Lorine Ilavonga and Joan Ogola remain confident that Kenya will complete the task and advance to the final qualification round.

Ferdinand Omanyala marked his return to international competition with a third-place finish at the ASA Grand Prix in Pretoria, clocking 10.22 seconds in a tightly contested 100m race. His compatriot, Mark Otieno, finished fourth as South Africa’s Karabo Letebele took victory in a photo finish.

Dr Patrice Motsepe will lead the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for another four years after being re-elected unopposed during the 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly in Cairo.

Ferdinand Omanyala kicks off his international season with a high-stakes sprint showdown against compatriot Mark Odhiambo at the ASA Grand Prix opener in Tshwane. With World Championships qualification on the line, Kenya’s top sprinters will battle South Africa’s finest in a thrilling contest on 12 March.

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has named his provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gabon and Gambia. The squad features a mix of experienced players and fresh talents, with William Lenkupae earning his first call-up. Kenya will kick off their campaign with an away fixture against Gambia before hosting Gabon at Nyayo Stadium.

Kenya’s largest stadium is taking shape at Jamhuri Park, Nairobi, with the Talanta Hela Stadium now 40% complete. The government aims to finish the 60,000-seater facility by the end of the year, marking the country's most significant sports infrastructure project in 45 years. Officials confirmed the progress during a cabinet meeting, with the stadium set to serve as a key venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).