NEWS IN: Bayern Vs Ajax Clash At Talanta Stadium Faces Setback As Petitioners Move To Court

Plans to host European football giants Bayern Munich and AFC Ajax at the Raila Odinga International Stadium have faced a legal challenge after six petitioners moved to court seeking to block the use of public funds for the highly anticipated friendly match.

The petition was filed at the High Court on Monday, November 2, with the activists seeking conservatory orders to prevent the government from authorising, allocating, releasing or spending public money on the January 5, 2027 fixture.

The petitioners argue that the government should not commit taxpayers’ money to organising the match without publicly disclosing the financial arrangements and the obligations entered into with the two European clubs.

They are also seeking court orders compelling the government to release sponsorship agreements and contracts involving Bayern Munich, Ajax and their representatives within seven days.

Additionally, they want authorities to identify the corporate sponsors involved, disclose their financial contributions and provide a detailed breakdown of expected expenses, including appearance fees, travel, accommodation, security, insurance and hospitality.

In their court filings, the petitioners reference an estimated hosting cost of Ksh724.6 million (approximately €5 million), although they acknowledge that the figure has not been independently verified.

The legal challenge comes a day after Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi insisted that taxpayers would not finance the event, saying private sponsors had agreed to support the initiative.

“We are not using government money. We have gotten a private sponsor who has supported us to bring the two teams here,” Mwangi stated.

However, the PS did not disclose the overall cost of hosting the clubs or provide details of the sponsorship arrangements.

President William Ruto had earlier announced that Bayern Munich and Ajax would play at the Talanta Stadium as Kenya prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Mwangi has also dismissed speculation that the January fixture would feature legends, reserve or junior sides, insisting that senior teams from both European clubs would travel to Nairobi.

The court case now introduces uncertainty into preparations for an international football event expected to showcase Kenya’s new stadium ahead of AFCON 2027.

https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/129062-petition-filed-block-govt-funding-bayern-munich-ajax-match-raila-odinga-stadium

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