By Eddah Waithaka
Kenyan football is kicking off a new era of growth after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) secured a landmark KSh 1.2 billion sponsorship deal with gaming giant SportPesa.
The 10-year partnership rebrands the top flight as the SportPesa League and promises clubs unprecedented financial stability starting with the 2025/26 season on September 20.
Under the agreement, SportPesa will provide annual funding starting at KSh 85 million in the first year, rising progressively to KSh 145 million by the tenth year.
The deal directs 60% of funds directly to clubs as grants, while FKF will manage the remaining 40% for league operations.FKF President Hussein Mohammed hailed the partnership as a “transformative chapter” for Kenyan football.
“This finally addresses the chronic financial struggles that have weakened our teams over the years,” he said.
The deal introduces a significantly enhanced prize structure, with the total kitty for top clubs rising to KSh 20 million. Champions will now pocket a record KSh 15 million, while runners-up and third-place teams will earn KSh 3 million and KSh 2 million respectively.
SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri and FKF each contributed KSh 10 million to create the new prize fund, marking a dramatic increase from previous seasons.
The upcoming SportPesa League season will feature 18 clubs battling under the new financial model.
Opening fixtures will see Tusker face KCB at Nyayo Stadium, AFC Leopards take on Sofapaka at Ulinzi Complex, and defending champions Gor Mahia meet Bidco United at Kasarani.
Azam TV will continue broadcasting all matches through its seven-year deal secured in 2023, ensuring fans across the region can follow the action.
The decade-long commitment provides clubs with the resources to invest in long-term development rather than focus on survival, signaling a brighter future for Kenyan football as the new season kicks off on September 20.
