Bayern Munich and Ajax have made a major request ahead of their highly anticipated January 5, 2027 friendly in Kenya, raising expectations of a huge international football gathering in Nairobi.
The two European giants have asked organisers to reserve at least 5,000 tickets for their supporters, with the clubs indicating they intend to purchase the tickets for fans travelling to Kenya.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi disclosed the request on Wednesday, November 4, saying the development could bring thousands of international visitors into the country.
The match will be played at the Raila Odinga International Stadium at Talanta Sports City in Nairobi.
According to Mwangi, the expected arrival of at least 5,000 supporters presents Kenya with an opportunity to benefit beyond the football action.
He explained that the visitors could spend money on hotels, restaurants, transport, tourism activities and other services during their stay.
The government also hopes the fixture will give Kenya international exposure, considering the enormous global following enjoyed by Bayern Munich and Ajax.
The two clubs have a combined social media following of more than 300 million, giving the country an opportunity to showcase its tourism attractions, culture and investment opportunities to a massive international audience.
Mwangi suggested that some supporters could develop an interest in returning to Kenya for holidays after experiencing the country during the football event.
The economic benefits could therefore extend beyond the January 5 match.
Hotels, tour operators, restaurants and transport businesses are among those expected to benefit if thousands of international visitors make the trip.
However, the PS did not reveal the ticket prices, the specific countries from which supporters are expected to travel or the arrangements being made for their visit.
The friendly is also expected to provide an important opportunity for Kenyan footballers to showcase their abilities before representatives of two established European clubs.
The government hopes local players could attract the attention of international scouts and potentially secure opportunities abroad.
The fixture is part of Kenya's wider preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The government views the Bayern Munich-Ajax showdown as an opportunity to demonstrate Kenya's ability to organise major international sporting events ahead of the continental tournament.
Mwangi further revealed that any surplus generated from the match would be channelled towards supporting preparations for AFCON 2027.
With the two European clubs requesting 5,000 tickets for their supporters, attention is now turning to how the January encounter will boost Kenya's international sporting profile and hospitality industry.
Source: https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2026-11-04-bayern-ajax-seek-5000-tickets-for-kenya-bound-fans
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