Raila Odinga's love for Gor Mahia and Arsenal: The statesman who lived, breathed football
From his animated football metaphors on the campaign trail, where he often cast himself as captain and striker, to his tangible support for clubs and players, Odinga lived football. He saw in the game a reflection of life: hard work, teamwork, and the pursuit of victory against all odds.
The Kenyan sports community has joined millions across the nation in mourning the death of former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, while undergoing treatment in India.
Beyond his towering political legacy, Odinga will also be remembered as one of Kenya’s most passionate football lovers, a man whose love for the game shaped his life, his language, and even his leadership.
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For Odinga, football was more than entertainment; it was a lifelong passion and philosophy. He often said that the sport taught him teamwork, patience, and resilience, values that helped him navigate Kenya’s tough political field.
His connection to football was not limited to the terraces; he played the game himself in his youth, turning out for Luo Union FC and later Bunge FC during his tenure as Lang’ata MP.
His biggest footballing love, however, was Gor Mahia FC, Kenya’s most successful club.
As the club’s long-serving patron, Odinga was not a ceremonial figurehead; he was a true supporter. Whether cheering in the stands during the Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards or hosting players at his Karen home for motivation, Raila embodied the spirit of K’Ogalo.
Just weeks before his death, he pledged Sh10 million to support Gor Mahia’s 2025/2026 season operations.
Last year, he rewarded the team with Sh1 million after they advanced in the CAF Champions League. For nearly two decades, Odinga stood by the club, helping sustain its legacy and inspiring players and fans alike.
Gor Mahia mourned him deeply, describing him as “a guiding light and a tremendous support to our club”.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our beloved patron, the Raila Odinga. He was a guiding light and a tremendous support to our club. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. May he rest in perfect peace,” read Gor Mahia’s statement.
Odinga’s love for the game extended to the national stage. He was a loyal supporter of the Harambee Stars, often attending matches and personally motivating players.
During Kenya’s run in the CHAN 2024 tournament, he promised each player Sh500,000 after their win over Zambia, a gesture that reflected his genuine care for local footballers and his desire to uplift the sport.
Internationally, Odinga’s heart belonged to Arsenal FC in the English Premier League.
Interestingly, he once supported Manchester United but switched allegiance when Arsène Wenger joined Arsenal, captivated by the Frenchman’s football philosophy and attacking style.
“Wenger’s football is intelligent and beautiful,” Odinga once remarked, explaining that it mirrored his own belief in strategic, disciplined leadership.
Whenever he travelled to London, he made time to visit the Emirates Stadium, proudly wearing Arsenal colours.
His passion for sports also found expression in infrastructure. His dream of nurturing young talent came true through the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, a 20,000-seat arena completed in May 2025, a lasting symbol of his commitment to youth and sports development.
From his animated football metaphors on the campaign trail, where he often cast himself as captain and striker, to his tangible support for clubs and players, Odinga lived football. He saw in the game a reflection of life: hard work, teamwork, and the pursuit of victory against all odds.
As Gor Mahia fans, Arsenal faithful, and football lovers across Kenya mourn his passing, one thing is clear: Odinga’s name will forever be etched not only in the country’s political history but also in the heart of Kenyan football.
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