Exclusive: Kariobangi Sharks and FKF Lock Horns Over Relegation Play-Offs
The ruling will have a direct impact on Kariobangi Sharks, a club linked to former FKF President Nick Mwendwa. Having finished 16th last season, the team faces relegation for the first time since their promotion in 2017, after spending a decade in the top flight.
According to FKF Acting Secretary General Dennis Gicheru, the matter of relegation and promotion was settled on September 19th, 2025 during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
Gicheru explained that at that gathering, it was decided to scrap the KPL/NSL relegation-promotion play-offs. As a result, at the conclusion of this season, the three lowest-placed KPL clubs will be relegated, while three NSL teams will gain automatic promotion.
'There Will Be No Play-Offs'
“In light of the above, no play-offs will occur, in accordance with the NEC resolutions which came into effect immediately,” stated Gicheru in the letter obtained by Flashscore, which was addressed to Kariobangi Sharks Chief Executive Officer Lynda Ambiyo.
However, Kariobangi Sharks fired back swiftly, insisting they disagree with the decision and plan to appeal it.
The club has announced it will file an appeal without delay, following FKF's internal procedures. To proceed with the appeal, the Kariobangi Sharks CEO has requested FKF to provide the club with specific documents.
“We request that you supply us with a certified copy of the NEC Resolution dated September 19th, 2025, as referenced in your letter.
“We ask for this because Kariobangi Sharks FC received no communication about this resolution at any stage before or during the 2025-2026 season,” she said.
Additionally, the club seeks confirmation of how and when this resolution was communicated to participating clubs, in line with the requirements cited in the FKF letter stating that teams would be informed of the competition rules before the season starts.
“We also request your advice on the correct internal channel for submitting this appeal, including which FKF body has authority to hear and decide on the matter, along with the relevant procedure, deadlines, and any filing requirements.
Sofapaka and Bidco United Relegated
“Given the urgency and time constraints of this issue, with player registration and related deadlines imminent, we respectfully ask for your response within 24 hours of this email,” the letter concluded.
This marks the first time FKF has abolished the play-offs, which have been held annually to determine relegation and promotion.
Eliminating the play-offs could have widespread effects on various league structures, suggesting that such a decision should have been approved at the FKF congress, the federation's highest decision-making body.
As it stands, the matter may end up in the courts if Kariobangi Sharks remain dissatisfied with FKF's ruling.
Sofapaka and Bidco United have already been relegated to the National Super League (NSL) for the upcoming season. Sharks finished 16th with 38 points from 34 matches.