The much-anticipated CHAN trophy has finally arrived in Kenya ahead of Saturday’s final at Kasarani Stadium, bringing excitement to local football fans. Former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama, who serves as the CHAN Ambassador, escorted the trophy alongside CAF security personnel. Prior to its arrival in Nairobi, the trophy toured national broadcasters including KBC, NTV, KTN, and TV47, ensuring fans across the country could witness the prized artifact.
Nairobi marks the trophy’s final stop after its journey through the co-host nations, Tanzania and Uganda. The new CHAN trophy, unveiled officially by CAF on 1 August 2025, carries a fresh design that celebrates Africa’s football culture and unity. Crafted with a blend of gold and silver, the trophy embodies both prestige and the rising stature of the CHAN tournament. Its 54 encircling lines symbolize each CAF member association and the unique journey of African football – a journey built on passion, skill, and the dreams of generations. A map of Africa crowns the trophy, highlighting its pan-African significance.
Victor Wanyama expressed his enthusiasm about the tournament, stating, “The chance to host this CHAN tournament has been a big motivation for young local players. It has been a success so far, from the organization to the atmosphere created by the fans.” Despite the excitement, East African co-hosts Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania bowed out at the quarter-final stage. Nevertheless, CAF has rewarded the co-hosts with $450,000 (Sh58 million) each in recognition of their contributions.
The tournament resumes tomorrow after a two-day break with the semi-finals. Madagascar will face Sudan at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam at 5:30 pm, followed by Senegal taking on Morocco at Nelson Mandela Stadium, Kampala at 8:30 pm. The stakes are high, with four semi-finalists guaranteed Sh77 million, the third-place finisher earning Sh90 million, the runners-up taking home Sh155 million, and the champions set to claim a staggering Sh453 million.
As Kenya prepares to witness the crowning of a new CHAN champion at Kasarani, the tournament’s evolving prestige and the trophy’s symbolic design underscore CAF’s commitment to elevating African football and celebrating its rich cultural heritage.
