By Anderson Ojwang
A bittersweet moment for Gor Mahia – lifting the crown and at the same time falling to the scalpel of Nairobi United was a bitter pill to swallow.
Then the fulfilment of the promise to the immediate former patron, the late Raila Amolo Odinga, was a moment of passion and celebration galore.
The cocktail, laced with poison, left the Gor Mahia family wondering how the team that eliminated them from representing the country in CAF competition last year could still sneak back to humble them at the moment of glory.
What an irony: banking over Sh5 million while at the same time closing the league in the same mood in which it opened. The pain of loss.
The treasurer, Mr Gerphas Okuku, wrote: “We collected 5,451,000 at today’s final SportPesa match against Nairobi United, with a total of 17,487 tickets issued. Thanks to all our fans for the incredible turnout and discipline, which made our celebration even more special. Your support and loyalty are truly overwhelming. We also extend our deepest gratitude to our ticketing partners for their excellent work throughout the season. Their commitment and transparency have been key to our progress in ticketing and revenue collection.”
Gor lost the opening game and then lost the last game – what a scary and dubious scenario.
Nairobi United stole the bragging rights and left Gor humbled and disoriented, save only for the crown.
The Promise
The late Raila Amolo Odinga, before he departed for India for treatment, had a breakfast meeting with the Gor Mahia team and asked them to win the Premier League.
And the team made a commitment to deliver the silverware, and on Monday, 63rd Madaraka Day, they delivered the promise.
Gor Mahia wrote: “Promise kept, a legacy honoured… Just a day after being crowned SportPesa League champions, Gor Mahia presented the league trophy and ODM Cup to Mama Ida Odinga at her Karen home in Nairobi, fulfilling the final order given by the late club patron, Baba Raila Odinga.”
The main challenge now begins
Gor Mahia’s 12th player was crucial in winning the league. The fan base played a pivotal role in Gor Mahia’s win.
For the coach, with a battery of talent at his disposal, he failed to win the hearts of many with his tactics and fielding.
The first leg match between AP Bomet and Gor Mahia at Nyayo, in which Kogalo lost 4-1, was a red flag. But Gor Mahia still prevailed.
Former AFC Leopards chairman Dr Dan Shikanda, while congratulating Kogalo, said: “Congratulations to Gor Mahia for winning their 22nd League Title! Gor Mahia’s coronation as the 2025/2026 FKF Premier League champions was accompanied by a timely and valuable reality check, falling 1-0 to Nairobi United, the same side that proudly carried Kenya’s flag in the CAF Confederation Cup last season and went on to reach the lucrative group stages.”
He said the message to Gor Mahia was clear and unequivocal: the CAF Champions League is not merely a reward for winning the league; it is a platform to demonstrate the true strength of our football.
“The expectations of millions of our football followers extend beyond participation. As Kenya prepares to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations, our football finds itself at a defining moment in history. Strong performances by our clubs in CAF competitions can become a powerful advertisement for the quality, potential, and growth of our football,” he wrote.
Shikanda said every victory earned on the continent elevates the profile of our league, attracts greater investment, creates new commercial opportunities, and inspires the next generation of players and fans.
“Gor Mahia now carries the aspirations of an entire football nation. Should they rise to the occasion and make a meaningful impact in the CAF Champions League, they could help unlock a new era for our football, one characterised by greater respect, stronger partnerships, increased sponsorship, and a brighter future for the game,” he wrote.
President Ruto recognises Gor Mahia
President William Ruto congratulated Gor Mahia Football Club on winning the 2025/2026 SportPesa Premier League title and securing a historic 22nd league championship.
“This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work, discipline, and resilience that have defined your campaign throughout the season. I commend the players, technical bench, management, and the club’s loyal supporters, whose unwavering commitment has once again propelled K’Ogalo to the summit of Kenyan football,” he wrote.
Ruto said for generations, Gor Mahia has occupied a special place in the hearts of football fans across the country.
“The club’s rich legacy continues to inspire young Kenyans to pursue their dreams, embrace teamwork, and strive for excellence. This victory is not only a proud moment for the club and its supporters, but also a celebration of the continued growth and promise of Kenyan football. As you prepare to represent our nation in the CAF Champions League, carry with you the pride and goodwill of all Kenyans. We are confident that you will continue to fly our flag high and showcase the talent, determination, and fighting spirit that define our country. Hongera K’Ogalo on this historic achievement. May this success inspire even greater triumphs in the years ahead and bring further glory to Kenyan football,” he wrote.
