The increase will be seen as a huge boost for Kenyan clubs since the winner will now pocket Ksh15 million, and upward from the Ksh5 million that winners of the league used to receive under the previous regime.
In total, the federation and SportPesa have injected Ksh20 million into the top tier with Ksh15 million going to the new champions, Ksh3 million being pocketed by the second-placed team, while the third placed team will carry home Ksh2 million.
In addition, the league’s name was changed from FKF Premier League to SportPesa League, with FKF President Hussein Mohammed further committing Ksh10 million into the kitty, with an equal amount coming from the league’s title sponsor.
The 60% of the total funding, amounting to Ksh1.2 billion, will go directly to the clubs, while the remaining Ksh800 million will support league operations and development programs.
A statement from FKF, confirmed the new prize money by saying: “Football Kenya Federation, in partnership with SportPesa, has officially launched the 2025-26 SportPesa League season.
“The league will feature a prize money pool of Ksh20 million, with the champions taking home Ksh15 million, runners-up Ksh3 million, and third place Ksh2 million. The season kicks off on September 20th, ushering in a new era for Kenyan football.”
Partnership aims to restore league credibility
Speaking on behalf of FKF during the unveiling, Mohammed maintained the new partnership with SportPesa was aimed at restoring the league’s credulity, and enhancing the players’ welfare.
“Today marks the start of a new chapter for our top-tier competition. Our goal is clear - to build the league into one of the most vibrant and widely followed leagues in Africa,” said the FKF boss.
“This partnership aims to restore the league's credibility, enhance player welfare, and boost fan confidence. Finally, it would mark SportPesa's return to football sponsorship after their exit in 2019. The deal is expected to bring stability and growth to Kenyan football.”
The latest development was received with mixed reactions on social media with a section of fans supporting the move by FKF to increase the prize money.
Rafael Mbwaya said: “A move in the right direction although a lot more needs to be done especially the monetary reward to the league winners,” while George Ochieng Onyango called for a review of the prize money: “Good initiative but revise the league prize money, winners - Kshs.10 million, Runners Up – Kshs 7 million, and third placed team – Kshs3 million.”
Tusker vs KCB to kick off season
Tusker FC, who finished fourth in the last campaign, will open the season against KCB, while champions Kenya Police FC will kick off their title defence with a home fixture against Mara Sugar on September 21st.
Gor Mahia, who are the record champions with 21 titles, will begin their quest to wrestle the crown from Police against Bidco United.
In other matches, Kariobangi Sharks will entertain Bandari, Shabana will host promoted side APS Bomet, who will be under the watchful eyes of former Gor Mahia assistant coach Michael Nam.
