Kenya’s top-flight football is set for a return after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) officially confirmed September 19, 2026 as the kickoff date for the 2026/27 Kenya Premier League season.The announcement ends weeks of uncertainty that had left clubs, players and fans waiting for clarity over the start of the new campaign.
The new season will begin following a court ruling issued on August 28, 2026, which cleared the way for FKF to proceed with preparations for the domestic league. The start of the season had been delayed by a legal dispute involving Kariobangi Sharks over the regulations governing promotion and relegation.
Sharks challenged the use of the 2025 FKF Promotion and Relegation Regulations, arguing that the 2019 regulations should have applied to the relegation process. The ensuing legal proceedings disrupted preparations for the new season and temporarily halted official league activities.
The prolonged delay forced clubs to rely largely on friendly matches, invitational tournaments and training sessions to maintain players’ fitness and competitive sharpness. The uncertainty also raised concerns among football stakeholders over the impact of the lack of competitive matches on players preparing for continental assignments and international duty.
With the league now set to resume, clubs will have an opportunity to regain their competitive rhythm as players build match fitness ahead of a demanding season. For Kenya’s representatives in CAF competitions, including Gor Mahia and Tusker FC, the return of domestic football will provide valuable competitive preparation for their continental campaigns.
The resumption will also give Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy and his technical staff a better opportunity to monitor the form and fitness of locally based players ahead of upcoming international engagements.
For supporters, the confirmation brings an end to a frustrating wait and sets the stage for the return of competitive football across the country.
The 2026/27 season is now scheduled to get underway on Saturday, September 19, with clubs preparing for a campaign expected to bring renewed competition, pressure and high expectations both domestically and on the continental stage.
