FIFA President Gianni Infantino Visits Kenya for First Time Ahead of CHAN 2024 Final

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has officially arrived in Nairobi, marking his first-ever visit to Kenya as he prepares to attend the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024). His presence is being hailed as a historic milestone for Kenyan football.

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed emphasized that Infantino’s visit reflects global recognition of Kenya’s successful hosting of the tournament.

“On behalf of the Kenyan football family, I warmly welcome FIFA President Gianni Infantino to Kenya for the first time, as we gear up for the CHAN 2024 final,” Mohammed said in a statement.

“Kenya has captured the hearts of the world with our successful hosting of this tournament — today we celebrate that achievement together.”

Infantino will be joining Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, alongside top African football delegates and Kenyan officials, to witness the final match. The game marks the conclusion of Kenya’s month-long hosting of the biennial continental tournament.

According to FKF, the presence of global and continental football leaders is a major show of confidence in Kenya’s ability to stage large-scale international events.

“The Football Kenya Federation is honoured to welcome FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, and football leaders from across the continent to Nairobi for the CHAN 2024 final,” FKF stated.

“Kenya has proudly captured the hearts of Africa and the world with our successful hosting of this tournament, and today we stand tall as the continent unites in our capital city.”

Infantino, who has led FIFA for nearly a decade, is no stranger to African football. In 2023, he made a surprise appearance at the opening match of the African Football League in Tanzania, which attracted more than 60,000 fans.

While this is his first visit to Kenya, Infantino has previously engaged with FKF President Hussein Mohammed, most recently during the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco.

His visit not only celebrates Kenya’s successful CHAN 2024 hosting but also strengthens the country’s growing role in international football.