Ruto Welcomes Premier League Trophy to Kenya, Calls It a Celebration of Passion, Talent, and Unity

Kenya Football fever gripped State House on Thursday as President William Ruto officially welcomed the English Premier League (EPL) Trophy to Kenya, describing the visit as a historic celebration of the country’s unbreakable bond with the world’s most-watched football league.

The glittering silverware one of the most coveted trophies in global sport made its grand arrival in Nairobi as part of the Guinness Matchday Weekend Tour, a partnership between the Premier League, Guinness, and East African Breweries Limited (EABL).

For millions of Kenyan football fans, the visit marks more than just a photo opportunity it is a moment of pride and connection to a sport that unites communities from Nairobi’s estates to the remotest villages.

“It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to State House, Nairobi, for what is truly a special occasion the arrival of the English Premier League Trophy, one of the most iconic trophies in global sport,” President Ruto said.

‘Karibuni Kenya’ — Home of Passionate Fans

Welcoming officials from the Premier League, Ruto expressed delight at hosting what he called “distinguished guests from the world’s most exciting football competition.”

“Karibuni Kenya! You are most welcome to our beautiful country, home to some of the most passionate football fans anywhere in the world,” he said.

The President took time to celebrate Kenya’s football heritage, paying tribute to the legends who inspired generations from the late Joe Kadenge’s brilliance to Victor Wanyama’s Premier League stardom, and McDonald Mariga’s historic UEFA Champions League victory.

“These are men who reminded us that Kenyan talent belongs on the world stage,” Ruto said, underscoring the nation’s enduring love affair with football.

Kenya: A Football-Crazy Nation

“Kenya is, without a doubt, a football-crazy nation,” Ruto said with a smile. “We don’t just watch the Premier League; we live it, breathe it, and argue about it every weekend as if we owned the clubs ourselves!”

Indeed, across the country, match days transform neighbourhoods into mini-stadiums from roadside screens in Eldoret to packed pubs in Mombasa as fans passionately debate over Arsenal’s form or Manchester United’s tactics.

Ruto, himself an ardent Arsenal supporter, couldn’t resist a lighthearted moment.

“It’s true that the last two decades have not been easy for us; we’ve had our share of heartbreaks and near-misses,” he joked. “But if you’ve been watching the Gunners lately, the style, the swagger, the spirit it’s all coming alive again. Watch out, Arsenal are back!”

Partnership with Guinness and EABL

The President commended Guinness and EABL for bringing the trophy to Kenya and for their continued investment in sports development.

“Since its founding in 1922, EABL has embodied the spirit of Kenyan innovation and enterprise,” Ruto said. “Through its flagship brand, Guinness, it has brought fans together from neighbourhood watch parties to global sporting partnerships like this one.”

He noted that beyond business, EABL has been a driving force for talent and community growth, investing more than KSh300 million annually in sports ranging from football and rugby to golf and athletics.

Investing in Youth and Sport

President Ruto reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering the youth through sports and creative industries.

“We are investing in sports academies, community facilities, and the creative economy because we know that sport is not just about competition its about empowerment and unity,” he said.

He encouraged young Kenyans to see sport as a viable pathway to success and a platform to showcase their talent globally.

A Nation United by the Beautiful Game

As the Premier League Trophy begins its Kenyan tour, fans across the country are expected to turn out in droves to catch a glimpse of the iconic silverware and join in the festivities of the Guinness Matchday Weekend.

President Ruto urged Kenyans to celebrate this moment together.
“Let’s come together to share in the joy of the beautiful game and the spirit of collaboration that made this visit possible,” he said.

He concluded on an uplifting note, linking Kenya’s football passion to the nation’s broader aspirations:

“May this trophy’s visit remind us that Kenya’s love for football is boundless — and that with teamwork, resilience, and purpose, greatness is always within reach.”