Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has outlined Kenya’s preparations to host German giants FC Bayern Munich and Dutch side AFC Ajax for the opening match at Raila Odinga International Stadium on January 5, 2027.
Mvurya said representatives of the two clubs had visited Kenya to assess the country’s readiness to host the high-profile international football encounter at Talanta Sports City in Nairobi.
In a statement shared on X, the CS said the government was coordinating preparations across several ministries to ensure the event runs smoothly.
“Our discussions were fruitful and constructive, paving the way for the much-anticipated clash between the two European clubs,” Mvurya said.
He added that the government was working with the ministries responsible for tourism and interior to coordinate security, immigration, travel and hospitality arrangements for the teams, officials and international fans expected to attend.
The match will officially open the 60,000-seat Raila Odinga International Stadium, which is expected to play a major role in Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Kenya will co-host the continental tournament with Uganda and Tanzania from June 19 to July 17, 2027.
Both clubs have confirmed the January fixture. Bayern Munich described the trip as a special match to begin the new year, while Ajax said the encounter would mark the opening of Kenya’s new national stadium.
The match will bring two of Europe’s most decorated clubs to Nairobi. Bayern have won the European Cup and UEFA Champions League six times, while Ajax have claimed the title four times.
Mvurya said the government was also working with corporate partners, who are expected to be unveiled in the coming days, to support the event and establish sustainable arrangements for the use of the country’s sporting facilities.
The preparations are expected to provide an early test of Kenya’s capacity to host major international football events ahead of AFCON 2027.
Ticket sales are scheduled to begin on November 5 through the official Talanta Sports City website, according to information published by the clubs and tournament organisers.
The January encounter is expected to draw local and international football fans, giving Kenya an opportunity to showcase its new stadium and strengthen its profile as a sports tourism destination.
