Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has dismissed claims that the government will use public funds to finance the exhibition match featuring Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam, scheduled to mark the official opening of the Raila Odinga International Stadium in January 2027.Mwangi said the event, set for January 5, 2027, will be financed through sponsorships secured by the organisers, insisting that no government money will be channelled towards bringing the two European giants to Kenya.##NAJAVA_MECA_10075977##The clarification comes amid growing public debate over the cost of hosting the clubs, with figures circulating online suggesting that the exercise will cost over KSh1 billion. The reports have sparked criticism from some Kenyans, with groups threatening legal action to stop the event over concerns about the use of public resources.President William Ruto announced the arrival of the two clubs last week, with both Bayern Munich and Ajax subsequently confirming their participation. Bayern have also indicated that the visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen their presence in the African market and grow their fanbase on the continent.TACTICAL ANALYSIS: How Migori Youth adapted to lock out high flying ShabanaSpeaking about the arrangements, Mwangi also dismissed speculation that the clubs would send reserve sides or former players instead of their senior teams.“First, I want to put it on record that the teams coming to Kenya on January 5, 2027, will be the senior teams of Bayern Munich and Ajax, not their reserve or veterans sides,” he stated.He reiterated that the organisers had secured corporate backing to facilitate the event, distancing the government from the reported expenditure.“Secondly, we are not using government money to fund this event. We have secured sponsors who have come on board to support the initiative, and that is what has made it possible to bring these two teams to Kenya.”Government on how Kenya stands to benefit from Bayern Munich vs Ajax friendlyBeyond the international exhibition, Mwangi said the celebrations would also provide an opportunity to showcase Kenyan football, with local heavyweights Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards expected to feature in the programme.“It is important to celebrate such achievements. These two clubs have a combined global following of more than 300 million people. Having them come to Kenya, alongside our local clubs Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, presents a great opportunity to showcase what our country has to offer.”The 60,000-seater Raila Odinga International Stadium, which will be the largest sporting facility in the country, has been under construction since 2024. The facility is currently undergoing final preparations ahead of its official opening in January 2027.The stadium is also among the venues earmarked to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be jointly staged by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.Stars Abroad: Obiero strikes as Carlisle extend unbeaten run to seven games
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