Raila Odinga: Football fraternity loses an ardent supporter

By | October 16, 2025

Raila Odinga at CHAN PHOTO/CAF

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga wore many hats during his 80 years of life on earth; politician, mobilier, father and mentor to many. However, of the many interactions he made, the impact he had on sports was among his most significant and well observed by the public in his time alive.

Raila was always at the stadium when it mattered. By the time of his passing, he was patron of Gor Mahia FC and was a number one fan of national team Harambee Stars whose matches he attended at every opportunity he found.

Most recently, he was in attendance at the African Nations Championships in Kenya, where despite rumours of his supposed ill health, he still managed to make time to support the team.

Following Harambee Stars' huge win over Morocco at Moi Sports Centre Kasarani. Raila was in the dressing room celebrating with the players and staff. He was not just a supporter, he was a lover of football.

He pledged Ksh 500,00 per player, which was delivered.

FKF president Hussein Mohammed paid his tribute to the late former premier as a towering political figure but also a devoted patron of Kenyan football.

“I was not only a fan of his leadership but also I had the privilege of playing recreational football with him during the 2007 campaigns. Kenya has lost a great leader who was an ardent fan of sports and its development in our country,” he said.

The FKF president reflected on Odinga’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and advocating for better structures to support sports at the grassroots.

“We have lost one of the most courageous leaders, not only in the sports fraternity but also the entire country.”

At Gor Mahia, weeks before his passing, Raila had pledged Ksh 10 million to support the club’s 2025/2026 season operations, continuing a legacy that also saw him reward the team with Ksh 1 million after advancing in the CAF Champions League last year. Chairperson Ambrose Rachier says that the club has lost a major part of its functionality and a great supporter of change in sports.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our beloved Patron, the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga. He was a guiding light and a tremendous support to our club.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. May he rest in perfect peace," read Gor Mahia's statement.

This weekend's league football matches have been postponed in Kenya as a result of the death of the former Premier.

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