Bayern Munich and Ajax are set to headline the official opening of the new Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi.
The two European giants are scheduled to face each other on January 5, 2027, in an exhibition match at the 60,000-seat venue along Ngong Road.
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Raila Odinga Stadium opening set for January
President William Ruto announced the fixture while in Russia, saying the match would mark the formal opening of the new stadium.
The facility has been under construction since March 2024 and is expected to become one of Kenya’s main venues for major football events.
The stadium includes a hybrid playing surface, 52 sky boxes, video assistant referee technology and goal-line technology.
Ruto said the government wants the venue to strengthen Kenya’s ability to host major international sporting events.
European giants to face off in Nairobi
Bayern Munich and Ajax are among Europe’s most decorated football clubs.
Their meeting in Nairobi is expected to attract strong interest from Kenyan football fans and provide an early showcase for the new stadium.
The fixture will also give organizers a chance to test the venue ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
The event is also expected to raise the profile of the stadium internationally and support Kenya’s wider sports tourism ambitions.
Stadium to honour Raila Odinga
Ruto said the stadium was named after former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in recognition of his legacy and his long association with football.
The government also plans to involve corporate partners in supporting the opening event, although details of the sponsorship arrangements have not yet been announced.
The Bayern-Ajax match is expected to be one of the biggest international club fixtures ever staged in Kenya.
