Kenyan Premier League Rebrands as SportPesa League with Boosted Rewards for Top Teams
In a major shake-up for domestic football, Kenya’s elite division is set to undergo a name change ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, transitioning from the FKF Premier League to the SportPesa League. This rebranding is part of a groundbreaking 10-year sponsorship agreement between the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and SportPesa, valued at KSh 1.12 billion, which promises to inject fresh energy and financial incentives into the competition.
The announcement, made during a high-profile unveiling event today, highlights SportPesa’s renewed commitment to Kenyan soccer. The company, which backed the league from 2015 to 2019 during what many hail as its most vibrant phase, is returning with exclusive naming rights. This partnership not only refreshes the league’s identity but also introduces a revamped prize structure designed to heighten the stakes for players and clubs alike.
Enhanced Prize Pool: A Game-Changer for Competition
At the heart of the deal is a significantly expanded rewards system for the season’s standout performers. The total pot for the podium finishers has been doubled to KSh 20 million, up from an initial allocation of KSh 6 million. SportPesa has pledged KSh 10 million to fuel this initiative, with FKF stepping up to match the amount, ensuring a balanced contribution from both partners.
League winners will now claim the bulk of the funds a hefty KSh 15 million a sharp rise from the prior KSh 5 million. The silver medalists pocket KSh 3 million, while bronze goes to the third-placed side with KSh 2 million. This redistribution aims to motivate fierce rivalries and elevate performance standards across the board.
SportPesa CEO Ronald Karauri, speaking at the launch alongside FKF President Hussein Mohammed, underscored the strategic intent behind the hike. “Our goal is to foster a truly electrifying atmosphere where athletes push boundaries knowing the payoff matches their grit,” Karauri stated. He noted that the sponsorship terms include provisions for such enhancements, allowing the prize fund to adapt and grow based on ongoing dialogue with federation leaders.
Mohammed echoed this enthusiasm, framing the investment as a stepping stone to even greater ambitions. “We’re laying the groundwork today with this KSh 20 million infusion, but our sights are set higher – envisioning a future where top honors could net up to KSh 50 million or more,” he declared. This forward-looking approach reflects a broader strategy to professionalize Kenyan football and attract more investment.
A Partnership Built for Long-Term Impact
Beyond the immediate financial perks, the collaboration allocates 60% of the sponsorship revenue straight to clubs in the form of direct grants, empowering them to invest in infrastructure, youth development, and player welfare. The other 40% supports league operations, from marketing to matchday logistics, guaranteeing smoother execution and broader reach.
This model is expected to stabilize finances for participating teams and cultivate a more robust ecosystem for fans and stakeholders. During its previous tenure as sponsor, SportPesa helped spark a surge in attendance, media coverage, and international interest trends that organizers hope to replicate and surpass.
As the 2025/26 season kicks off, all eyes will be on how this infusion reshapes dynamics on the pitch. With richer rewards and a prestigious new banner, the SportPesa League is poised to reclaim its status as the crown jewel of East African soccer.
