Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has officially confirmed the postponement of the much-anticipated Mashemeji Derby, citing challenge in getting a suitable venue.The clash between Kenya’s two oldest and most storied football clubs (AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia) was initially scheduled for this Sunday.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News In a statement sent to media houses on Friday evening, FKF explained that the decision to push back the fixture was prompted by recent developments surrounding the suitability and availability of a venue.##NAJAVA_MECA_8916367##“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) wishes to inform the public that the FKF Premier League match between Gor Mahia FC and AFC Leopards SC, originally scheduled for Sunday, 11 May 2025, has been postponed,” read part of the statement.According to the federation, the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, the proposed venue, remains unavailable following a directive from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).The stadium is undergoing final preparations ahead of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).CAF had recommended relocating the fixture to Ulinzi Sports Complex and staging it behind closed doors to protect CHAN infrastructure and maintain security standards.However, Ulinzi Sports Complex management declined to host the match, citing internal safety concerns and fears of potential vandalism.FKFPL: Nabwire’s late winner lifts Kenya Police as Shabana, City Stars shineFollowing these setbacks, FKF held a meeting on Friday, 9 May 2025, with officials from both Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.The clubs were formally briefed on the situation and the rationale behind the decision.“With no suitable venue currently available, FKF has resolved to postpone the match to a later date, which will be communicated in due course,” the federation added.Only five rounds remain in the FKF Premier League season, with final matches scheduled for May 31.FKF is required to submit the league winner to CAF by July 1, placing additional pressure on the league’s scheduling committee.##NAJAVA_MECA_8916356##Initially, the derby had been cleared to take place at Kasarani following a joint meeting involving FKF, club officials, and Sports Stadia representatives on Tuesday.The venue, however, has been undergoing renovations since August 2023 in preparation for CHAN and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).Kenya targets CHAN spotlight with bid to host opening and closing ceremoniesCompounding the situation are rising safety concerns. Sources close to Gor Mahia revealed that the club was reluctant to proceed with the match under uncertain conditions, especially after chaotic scenes marred their recent fixture against Shabana at Gusii Stadium, where several supporters were injured.
