Bayern and Ajax open Africa's new national stadium in Nairobi

Under the clear sky of Nairobi, thousands of fans gather to witness the first match in the newly opened Raila‑Odinga‑International‑Stadium on 5 January 2027, where FC Bayern faces the Dutch record champions Ajax Amsterdam. The spectacular encounter aims to put the passion for football on the African continent at the forefront.

Opening of the Raila‑Odinga‑International‑Stadium

The new national stadium is named Raila‑Odinga International Stadium and is located within the Talanta Sports City complex. The opening ceremony marks the first use of the modern stadium for an international club match. With this, Nairobi becomes the venue for a major football event.

An International Football Festival for Africa

The encounter serves as the kickoff for the Africa Cup 2027, which will be staged in the summer in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. For the first time, the tournament will take place in three countries simultaneously and returns to East Africa after more than fifty years. The match is intended to further stoke the anticipation for the tournament.

Bayern Turns to Former Stars

On the pitch for FC Bayern, former Bundesliga professionals Marc‑André Ter Stegen, Thilo Kehrer and Julian Brandt will be on display. Their participation links the current squad with the club’s glorious past. Ajax also fields a strong team from Amsterdam.

Marketing Strategy of Bayern

Rouven Kasper, board member for Marketing & Sales of FC Bayern, said: “FC Bayern has millions of great fans in Africa with whom we feel a close connection – it is a continent with a huge passion for football.” He emphasized that the event underscores the club’s international radiance.

Broadcast and Ticket Sales

The match will be broadcast live on TV via ProSieben and simultaneously on FC Bayern TV PLUS. Ticket sales start on 5 November at talantasportscity.com. Fans can therefore secure their seats for the historic event early.

With this special encounter, FC Bayern links its Bundesliga tradition with a new African fan base and simultaneously enhances the visibility of European football on the continent.