Why Kenyan Hearts Beat Faster for the English Premier League

By DENNIS KIPKOECH TOO 

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

On any given Saturday afternoon in Nairobi, Kisumu, or Mombasa, the atmosphere in the local "base" areas and sports bars are buzzing. However, the roar of the crowd isn't for a local derby between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards at the Nyayo National Stadium, instead, it is from miles away at Anfield or the Emirates. The irony of Kenyan football is noticeable, while the country has rich talented players and a deep-seated passion of football the local top, the Kenya Premier League continues to be less popular than the English Premier League.

The dominance of English football in Kenya is not just a matter of taste, it is a result of effective marketing and accessibility. According to a Stahili Pulse Report released in late 2025, nearly 43% of Kenyan fans prefer watching matches at home with their families while 21% prefer watching in public spaces. The emotional connection is deepened by the presence of African icons. According to Capital FM, the popularity of the EPL in Kenya is fueled by the "African connection." Fans feel a sense of pride watching stars like Mohamed Salah and Thomas Partey shine on the global stage. Historically, the presence of Kenyan legend Victor Wanyama at Tottenham Hotspur solidified this bond, turning thousands of Kenyans into "Spurs" supporters overnight.

KPL has faced structural challenges. A 2026 report by Filo identifies three major challenges facing local football. These are; lack of modern training facilities and poorly maintained pitches increase injury risks. Frequent leadership disputes within the Football Kenya Federation led to FIFA bans and inconsistent free to air coverage.

EPL has also become closely linked to Kenya's economic landscape through the betting industry. The Stahili Pulse Report indicates that the highest regular expense for Kenyan football lovers is betting, with many fans spending up to KSh 500 every weekend on EPL multi-bets. The predictability of the English league's schedule and the wealth of available data make it a more attractive investment for many than the more volatile local scene.

KPL needs professional management and to prioritize fans to compete with EPL's popularity. Until then, as the sun sets over the Nairobi skyline, the most common question in the streets won't be "Who won the KPL?" but rather, "What was the score in the Arsenal game?"