Sofapaka FC Relegated After 17 Years in the Kenyan Premier League

Sofapaka FC’s 17-year stay in the Kenyan Premier League has come to an end after their relegation was confirmed following a draw against Mathare United at the Kasarani Annex on May 2, 2026.

The result capped off a difficult 2025/26 campaign in which the 2009 champions managed just 18 points from 30 matches, falling 11 points short of safety.

The relegation marks the close of a remarkable chapter for one of Kenya’s most distinctive football clubs, fondly known as Batoto Ba Mungu.

Sofapaka Historic Rise and Early Glory

Sofapaka’s story in the top flight began in fairytale fashion.

After earning promotion in 2009, they stunned Kenyan football by winning the league title in their debut season, a rare and remarkable achievement.

The club went on to cement its place among the country’s competitive sides, lifting two FKF Cups in 2010 and 2014, as well as Super Cup titles in 2010 and 2011.

Their early success established them as a force to be reckoned with for emerging clubs.

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A Legacy Beyond Results

Beyond trophies and results, Sofapaka earned widespread respect for their professionalism-particularly under the leadership of club owner Elly Kalekwa.

Kalekwa was widely credited for prioritizing player welfare, ensuring timely salaries, and maintaining stability at a time when many clubs struggled with financial discipline.

His approach set a benchmark in Kenyan football and influenced how clubs managed player contracts and transfers.

KPL Football pundit Zachary Oguda noted,“Sofapaka set a standard many admired-especially in player welfare and timely pay. That legacy should not be forgotten in this difficult moment.”

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Reactions Pour In as Sofapaka Drop Confirmed

Sofapaka’s relegation has sparked widespread reaction across Kenya’s football community, with pundits and fans reflecting on the club’s legacy and the harsh realities of the game.

Football pundit Don Teya described the moment as the end of a significant era in Kenyan football.

“Sofapaka FC’s long stay in the Kenyan Premier League has ended after their relegation today.

Since joining the top flight in 2009, they won the league title in their debut season, added two FKF Cups (2010, 2014) and two Super Cups (2010, 2011).

End of an era.”

Pundit Zachary Oguda offered a deeper reflection on the club’s impact, emphasizing its role in shaping professionalism within the league.

“Sofapaka F.C.’s relegation marks a painful moment for Kenyan football.

Football can be unforgiving, and without financial backing, even well-run clubs struggle to stay afloat. Sofapaka’s fall is not just their story but a reflection of the wider challenges in our league.

I wish them strength and success as they begin a new chapter in the National Super League.”

Kangwana Media tweeted,“Sofapaka has been relegated after a 2-2 draw against Mathare United at Kasarani Annex, bringing their 17-year stay in the top flight to an end.

Sofapaka now drop to the NSL after nearly two decades in the Kenya Premier League.”

Warothe tweeted,“Sad to see Sofapaka FC get relegated from the KPL. Batoto ba Mungu are #FootballKE heritage. Glad to have witnessed their prime.”

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Kenya Premier League Table
PHOTO/SportPesa