BREAKING: Mombasa United Promoted After Sharks Forfeit Abandoned Play-Off

Kariobangi Sharks players surround the referee in protest after a penalty was awarded to Mombasa United, moments before the match was abandoned at Ulinzi Sports Complex. Photo: Kennedy Mutunga.

The Football Kenya Federation Leagues and Competitions Committee has awarded Mombasa United a 2-0 forfeit victory over Kariobangi Sharks in the abandoned second-leg promotion-relegation play-off and confirmed their promotion to the SportPesa Premier League for the 2026/27 season.

In a decision delivered on Friday, 9 October 2026, the Committee ruled that the match, played at Ulinzi Sports Complex on 6 October, was abandoned in the 64th minute after Kariobangi Sharks players confronted the centre referee following a penalty awarded to Mombasa United.

The Committee further found that Sharks kit manager Patrick Paul Otieno, together with a section of the club’s supporters, invaded the pitch and physically assaulted the referee. Medical assessment confirmed the official was unable to continue. The incident was reported at Langata Police Station under OB No. 56/6/10/2026.

Mombasa United players look on as chaos erupts on the pitch following the disputed penalty decision that led to the abandonment of the second-leg play-off. A Screengrab of the ruling. Photo: Kennedy Mutunga

Citing Articles 3.3.2 and 3.3.3 of the Rules and Regulations Governing Kenyan Football (2019), the Committee declared:

– The match is forfeited by Kariobangi Sharks and awarded to Mombasa United by a 2-0 scoreline. 

– Mombasa United are the aggregate play-off winners and are promoted to the SportPesa League 2026/27 season. 

– All matters relating to the violence and misconduct are referred to the FKF Disciplinary Committee for prosecution and possible sanctions.

The hearing was chaired by Peter Kamau Chege and attended by representatives of both clubs and Match Commissioner Nassur Doka.

The decision ends weeks of uncertainty surrounding the final Premier League place following the chaotic scenes that forced the abandonment of the second leg.

KennedyMutunga feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com