President Ruto confirms Bayern Munich vs Ajax clash to open Kenya’s new stadium

Kenya President William Ruto has confirmed that Bayern Munich and Ajax will play the opening match at the country’s new national stadium on January 5, 2027, as Nairobi prepares to welcome two of European football’s most decorated clubs.

Announcing the fixture in a national address on Wednesday, Ruto said the match would mark the official opening of the 60,000-capacity Raila Odinga International Stadium, formerly known as Talanta Stadium, in Nairobi.

“Come January 5, 2027, we will open this stadium with a historic match between two giants of European football, FC Bayern Munich of Germany and FC Ajax of Amsterdam. Between them, they have been crowned champions of Europe ten times,” Ruto said.

The German champions and Dutch giants will meet at the new venue, which is expected to host matches during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Ruto also highlighted the symbolism behind the fixture, linking Bayern’s German roots to the late former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, after whom the stadium has been named, and Ajax’s reputation for developing young talent.

“On January 5, 2027, talent and the future will meet in Nairobi,” he added.

The President said the event would be delivered through corporate partnerships and a commercial model designed to attract private investment and create opportunities for Kenyans.

Both clubs have confirmed the fixture. Ajax described the invitation as an honour, while Bayern said the event would strengthen its connection with supporters across Africa. The match will also serve as a major football occasion ahead of Kenya’s preparations for AFCON 2027.