Bayern Munich and Ajax will inaugurate Kenya’s new national stadium with a friendly match in Nairobi in January, ahead of the country’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
President William Ruto announced the fixture on Wednesday. He said the German champions and Dutch side would play in the Kenyan capital to officially open the stadium.
The facility bears the name of former opposition leader Raila Odinga, who died in October last year.
Bayern, Ajax to open new stadium
The match will bring two major European clubs to Nairobi as Kenya prepares to host Africa’s biggest football tournament.
Bayern Munich are the reigning Bundesliga champions, while Ajax compete in the Dutch Eredivisie.
Ruto described the new facility as “the world’s best.” He also highlighted its modern features, including video assistant refereeing (VAR) and the latest goal-line technology.
The stadium will also host matches at the 2027 AFCON. Kenya will co-host the tournament with Uganda and Tanzania.
The opening match will give Kenyan football fans a chance to watch two well-known European teams. It will also draw international attention to the country’s investment in sports infrastructure.
Kenya raises $346m for stadium
Kenya financed the stadium through the securitisation of a sports levy. The funding scheme raised about 45 billion Kenyan shillings, equivalent to $346 million.
The government raised the money through a bond listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
The project forms part of Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 AFCON. The tournament will allow Kenya and its co-hosts to showcase their facilities to teams and supporters from across Africa.
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