Football Kenya Federation postpones Premier League start

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has postponed the start of the 2026/27 SportPesa Premier League following a series of conflicting court orders. The postponement aims to protect the federation and clubs from legal risks after judicial rulings in Murang’a, Nairobi, and Kiambu disrupted the scheduled kickoff for September 19-20.

The legal dispute centers on the composition of the 18-team league and promotion/relegation rights. One ruling from the Kiambu High Court directed the FKF to include Mombasa United in the fixtures. Conversely, a temporary injunction from the Murang’a High Court barred the federation from proceeding with matches until a playoff is conducted between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United.

Kariobangi Sharks has contested their automatic relegation, citing a 2019 rulebook that they argue entitles them to a playoff. The uncertainty has left major clubs, including Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, facing an indefinite delay to the season.