SportPesa and FKF Seal KSh 1.12 Billion Deal to Transform Kenyan Football
Posted by JIM MWANDA
FootballKenya’s top-tier football is set for a major revival after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) signed a landmark partnership with gaming giant SportPesa worth KSh 1.12 billion. The 10-year agreement not only rebrands the Premier League as the SportPesa League but also promises financial stability, professionalism, and renewed competitiveness starting with the 2025/26 season on September 20.
Nairobi Kenya
16th September 2025
FootballKenya’s top-tier football is set for a major revival after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) signed a landmark partnership with gaming giant SportPesa worth KSh 1.12 billion.
The 10-year agreement not only rebrands the Premier League as the SportPesa League but also promises financial stability, professionalism, and renewed competitiveness starting with the 2025/26 season on September 20.
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Long-Term Stability for Clubs under the deal, SportPesa will provide annual funding that starts at KSh 85 million in the first year and gradually rises to KSh 145 million by the tenth year. To ensure sustainability, 60 percent of the funds will go directly to clubs as grants, while the remaining 40 percent will be managed by FKF to run league operations.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed described the partnership as a “transformative chapter” for local football, noting that it finally addresses the chronic financial struggles that have weakened teams over the years. The structured distribution is expected to help clubs improve training grounds, invest in youth academies, and prioritize player welfare.
Bigger Rewards for Top PerformersBeyond operational support, the deal also introduces a significantly enhanced prize structure. The total prize kitty for the top three clubs has been raised to KSh 20 million. League winners will now pocket a record KSh 15 million, while second and third place finishers will earn KSh 3 million and KSh 2 million, respectively.
The prize fund was made possible through a combined effort by SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri, who pledged KSh 10 million, and FKF, which matched the amount. This marks a dramatic increase from past seasons, with expectations that it will intensify rivalries, attract talent, and motivate players.
A New Chapter for the LeagueThe upcoming 2025/26 SportPesa League season will see 18 clubs battle for glory under the new financial model. Fans can expect thrilling opening fixtures, including
Tusker versus KCB at Nyayo Stadium,
AFC Leopards taking on Sofapaka at Ulinzi Complex, and
defending champions Gor Mahia facing Bidco United at Kasarani.
Matches will continue to be broadcast live by Azam TV, which secured a seven-year broadcast deal in 2023, ensuring fans across the region can follow the action.
Building the Future of Kenyan Football With a decade-long commitment, increased prize money, and a clear focus on growth, the SportPesa-FKF deal lays the groundwork for a stronger football ecosystem in Kenya. Clubs now have the resources to think beyond survival and invest in long-term development, while fans can look forward to a more competitive and professional league.As the first whistle of the new season blows on September 20, Kenyan football enters a new era—one defined by stability, ambition, and the promise of a brighter future.
