In a move that has left fans and clubs scrambling, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has announced the suspension of several key football fixtures scheduled for Friday, October 17, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium. The decision to cancel the matches comes as the country enters a period of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
Among the fixtures affected are two high-profile FKF Premier League matchups: AFC Leopards vs. Bandari FC and Tusker FC vs. KCB. These games were expected to attract large crowds to Nyayo Stadium, but the venue will now be closed to accommodate preparations for the state funeral, which is set to take place on the same day. The memorial event will see top government officials and dignitaries in attendance, which has necessitated a temporary closure of the stadium.
The announcement, which was made late Thursday, caught many teams and fans by surprise, as both AFC Leopards and Tusker FC had already completed their training sessions in anticipation of the matches. The Ministry of Sports issued a directive stating that the stadium would remain inaccessible starting Thursday night to allow for security arrangements and venue setup for the funeral.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions from the public. While some fans expressed disappointment over the short notice, others acknowledged the significance of the national memorial event. Nyayo Stadium has long served as a multi-purpose venue, frequently hosting not only sports events but also national celebrations and state functions. Earlier in 2025, the stadium was closed for the Safari Sevens Rugby Tournament and for preparations related to the Africa Nations Championships qualifiers. In 2024, it hosted the Madaraka Day celebrations, which also caused a brief disruption to league fixtures.
The cancellation of the football fixtures has now forced the affected clubs to seek alternative training venues. Options include the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani and the Ulinzi Sports Complex, both of which are well-equipped to handle such adjustments. The clubs are now focused on keeping their players sharp and ready for when normal activities resume after the memorial event concludes.
Despite the disruption, FKF and stadium officials have reassured fans that once the national commemoration is complete, the stadium will be cleared for use, and football matches will resume as scheduled.
