President Ruto Welcomes UEFA Champions League Trophy to Kenya in Historic Visit

President William Ruto proudly welcomed the iconic UEFA Champions League trophy to Kenya, marking a historic moment for football enthusiasts across the nation. The prestigious silverware, a symbol of Europe’s elite club competition, arrived at State House, Nairobi, as part of the final leg of a global tour organized by Heineken, in collaboration with UEFA and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). The event, steeped in excitement and national pride, underscored Kenya’s growing passion for football and its aspirations to become a powerhouse in the sport.

The trophy, accompanied by German football legend Bastian Schweinsteiger—a 2013 Champions League winner with Bayern Munich—was formally presented to President Ruto during a vibrant ceremony attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Sports, FKF, and representatives of Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), part of the Heineken company. The visit, which followed stops in Vietnam, Indonesia, South Africa, and Zambia, aimed to bring the magic of the Champions League closer to fans worldwide, offering Kenyan supporters a rare opportunity to engage with one of football’s most coveted prizes.

President Ruto, a self-proclaimed Arsenal supporter, expressed his enthusiasm for the occasion, highlighting the trophy’s significance as a source of inspiration for Kenya’s youth.

The UEFA Champions League is a powerful symbol that fuels dreams in football

Ruto remarked during the ceremony.

It inspires millions of young footballers across the world, Africa and Kenya included. This is the ultimate football destination.

He emphasized the potential of professional football to transform lives, urging stakeholders to harness the sport’s commercial and social benefits to uplift players, coaches, and communities.
The President’s personal connection to football shone through as he voiced optimism about Arsenal’s chances in the ongoing Champions League semi-finals. Referencing their 1-0 deficit against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Ruto exuded confidence, stating,

Since I am the last to hold it, I am praying for my team Arsenal so that this year they lift this trophy in the finals.

He added a call for unity among football fans, encouraging Kenyans to enjoy the game regardless of their team allegiances.

Many Kenyans are following with keen interest the ongoing UEFA Champions League semi-finals… Whichever team you are rooting for, let us enjoy the game

he affirmed.
The event also highlighted Kenya’s commitment to elevating its football profile on the global stage. President Ruto challenged the FKF and other stakeholders to address managerial challenges and raise the standard of Kenyan football to match the country’s storied success in athletics.

You have the heavy responsibility to lift football in our country to the level of athletics

he urged, pointing to the talent of Kenyan players who have competed in top global leagues as evidence of the nation’s potential.
Bastian Schweinsteiger, whose presence added star power to the occasion, shared his excitement about connecting with Kenyan fans.

Football is all about connection, emotion, and unforgettable moments

the former Bayern Munich midfielder said.

Some of the most passionate fans I’ve met have never even been to a stadium, yet their love for the game is just as strong. I’m excited to bring the magic of the tournament to fans in Kenya.

The trophy’s visit is part of a three-day tour in Kenya, culminating in a public display on Saturday, May 3, where fans will have the chance to see the silverware up close and take photographs. Heineken and FKF also planned a fun match session featuring Kenyan football legends interacting with Schweinsteiger, further engaging the local football community. Jonas Geeraerts, Commercial Director at KWAL, emphasized the significance of the event, stating,

The UEFA Champions League is a truly global competition, and we are delighted to give Kenyan fans a chance to experience the iconic trophy up close and personal.

This visit, the first since the Champions League trophy toured Kenya 13 years ago, comes at a time when Kenya is preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania. President Ruto’s administration has prioritized sports infrastructure development, with ongoing renovations at Nyayo, Kasarani, and Kipchoge Keino Stadiums, signaling a deliberate push to position Kenya as a hub for African football.
The arrival of the Champions League trophy not only celebrates Kenya’s love for the beautiful game but also serves as a rallying call for the nation to nurture its football talent and infrastructure. As President Ruto handed the spotlight to the youth and fans, his message was clear: Kenya’s football dreams are within reach, and moments like these are just the beginning.