German giants Bayern Munich and Dutch side Ajax Amsterdam will face off in a high-profile friendly on 5 January 2027 to officially open the Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi. bundesliga.com
The match forms the centrepiece of the ceremonial launch of Kenya’s new 60,000-seater national stadium at Talanta Sports City. The venue has been constructed ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania. bundesliga.com
Both clubs have confirmed their participation. Bayern Munich described it as “a special match to kick off the new year,” while Ajax said it was “proud” to take part in the opening fixture. the-star.co.ke
President William Ruto announced the fixture, noting the two clubs’ combined ten European Cup and Champions League titles. He highlighted a symbolic link to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who studied in Germany, saying a major German club would now play in the stadium that bears his name. the-star.co.ke
This will be Bayern Munich’s first visit to Kenya. The fixture coincides with the winter break in both the Bundesliga and Eredivisie, allowing the teams to travel for the exhibition game. Stars including Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane are expected to feature for Bayern. bundesliga.com
Tickets go on sale from 5 November at talantasportscity.com. The match is being funded by the private sector and is expected to serve as a major test event for the stadium ahead of AFCON 2027. bundesliga.com
The encounter marks a significant moment for Kenyan football infrastructure and is set to draw large crowds to Nairobi for one of the biggest club matches ever staged in the country.