Exclusive: Gor Mahia versus AFC Leopards Mashemeji derby facing postponement

Photo Credit: Football Kenya Federation

The eagerly awaited Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League Mashemeji derby between rivals Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards is now hanging in the balance and could be postponed.

The 97th derby, which was scheduled for Sunday at Kasarani Stadium, is yet to get a venue after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) turned down a request for the two teams to use Kasarani Stadium, which is under renovation.

The request to use Kasarani comes after Nyayo Stadium, which hosted the first round derby that ended in a 0-0 draw and Kenya's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon, was closed indefinitely for the laying down of a new athletics tartan track.

With confusion surrounding the derby, Pan-Africa Football reached out for the progress and a top Gor Mahia official, who did not want to be named, confirmed that the African body was yet to respond to their second request to use Kasarani.

"We are still talking with CAF through FKF to let us use Kasarani Stadium," the source told Pan-Africa Football. Asked whether the derby will be called off if CAF turns down the latest request to use Kasarani, the source said: "Most likely (the derby could be postponed), but it is only FKF that has the mandate to do so."

Kasarani Stadium has been under renovation since August 2023 with anticipation to co-host the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The derby comes at a time when K’Ogalo are fighting to win a third straight crown. Having won a record 21st title last season, Gor Mahia are currently among the favourites to be champions at the end of the season.