Kasarani Stadium was engulfed in chaos on Sunday as Gor Mahia fans clashed with police ahead of the Kenyan Premier League opener against Bidco United. The disturbance erupted after a section of supporters reportedly tried to gain unlawful access to the stadium.
Eyewitnesses described a running battle, with smoke filling parts of the stadium as police chased fans attempting to break in. While the exact reason for the initial denial of entry remains unclear, it is believed that hundreds of fans wanted to watch the match despite not having purchased tickets.
Ticket checks revealed that general admission cost Ksh300, while VIP seats were priced at Ksh1000. Gor Mahia, widely known for having some of the most passionate football supporters in Kenya, have in recent months been involved in multiple stadium incidents.
Earlier this year, in June, authorities had to deploy tear gas at the Ulinzi Sports Complex to disperse rowdy fans during a match. In May, a stampede at Gusii Stadium left several fans injured ahead of a Gor Mahia clash with Shabana FC.
The heightened enthusiasm among fans on Sunday was fueled by curiosity over the squad’s prospects for the new season. Following a title loss to Police FC in the 2024/2025 campaign, many supporters were eager to assess the team’s readiness and performance.
Despite the ongoing incidents, Gor Mahia’s loyal fan base continues to be a defining feature of Kenyan football. Clubs and authorities have increasingly highlighted the need for stricter ticketing enforcement and crowd management to prevent further violence and injuries.
As the season kicks off, the Kasarani clash serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between fan passion and stadium safety. Both the club and police are likely to review security measures to ensure smoother entry and a safer environment for supporters in future fixtures.
