FKF confirms temporary stadium closures as CAF inspection intensifies ahead of AFCON 2027
By Joel Masibo, February 12, 2026The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has announced that several key stadiums and training facilities across the country will remain temporarily unavailable for domestic league matches and training sessions as Kenya undergoes a crucial inspection process ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.
In a statement dated Thursday, February 12, 2026, FKF President Hussein Mohammed informed stakeholders, including clubs, players, fans, and the general public, about the current status of major venues and the expected impact on local competitions.
”I wish to inform stakeholders, clubs, players, fans and the general public on the current status of key stadiums and training facilities across the country, and the impact their temporary closure will have on domestic leagues and competitions,” Mohammed said.
Kenya is currently hosting an official inspection mission by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), part of preparations for the 2027 AFCON tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The assessment, being conducted by CAF technical experts, is aligned with the continental body’s strict, world-class delivery standards.
Key venues under inspection
In Kenya, the inspection programme covers Kasarani Stadium, Nyayo National Stadium, and Talanta Sports City. Designated training venues under review include the Ulinzi Sports Complex, the Kenya Academy of Sports, Police Sacco facilities, Utalii Grounds, and other sites earmarked for tournament use.
According to FKF, the inspections are focused on pitch quality, safety and security standards, infrastructure readiness, and overall venue management. The process is aimed at ensuring that all facilities meet CAF’s requirements for hosting a tournament of AFCON’s magnitude.
Disruptions to domestic competitions
As a result of the ongoing inspections and the upgrades required to meet CAF benchmarks, several of these facilities will be temporarily closed for domestic league matches and training activities. FKF acknowledged that this will inevitably disrupt league fixtures, competitions, and training schedules.
Clubs may be forced to seek alternative venues, while match calendars are likely to undergo adjustments to accommodate the renovation works and compliance measures. The federation has urged patience and understanding from all stakeholders during this transitional period.
Short-term pain, long-term gain
While admitting that the closures present short-term challenges, FKF emphasised that the measures are both necessary and unavoidable. The federation described the temporary inconvenience as being in the national interest and critical to ensuring full compliance with CAF standards.
“The process will ultimately result in modern, world-class stadiums and training facilities that will significantly enhance domestic competitions, player development, and the overall football ecosystem in the country,” Mohammed noted.
According to Hussein Mohammed, the upgrades are expected to leave a lasting legacy beyond AFCON 2027, strengthening Kenya’s ability to host major international tournaments and improving the quality of local football infrastructure.