Official: FKF confirms postponement of Gor Mahia versus AFC Leopards derby

Photo Credit: Football Kenya Federation

As predicted by Pan-Africa Football on Thursday, the eagerly awaited Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League Mashemeji derby between rivals Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards that was scheduled for Sunday has been postponed.

FKF issued a statement confirming the postponement of the 97th derby until further notice:

"This decision follows recent developments regarding the availability of suitable venues for the fixture. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has directed that the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani - the initially proposed venue - remains unavailable due to final preparations ahead of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), for which it is a designated competition venue," read part of the statement.

"CAF had further proposed that the fixture be moved to the Ulinzi Sports Complex and played behind closed doors to preserve CHAN infrastructure and maintain security standards. However, the venue declined to host the match, citing internal concerns around safety and the risk of vandalism."

"Following these developments, FKF held a meeting with representatives from both Gor Mahia FC and AFC Leopards SC on Friday, 9 May 2025. The two clubs have been formally informed of the situation and are aware of the reasons behind the decision to postpone the fixture."

The statement concluded: "With no suitable venue currently available, FKF has resolved to postpone the match to a later date, which will be communicated in due course. This fixture remains one of the most anticipated on the Kenyan football calendar, and we regret the inconvenience this change may cause to supporters, clubs, and partners."

During the first round meeting played at Nyayo Stadium, the two Kenyan giants battled to a 0-0 draw.