Nineteen National Super League (NSL) clubs have threatened to halt the start of the 2026/27 season unless Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed agrees to meet them to discuss concerns over the management of the second-tier competition.
In a letter dated October 15 and signed by representatives of the 19 clubs, the teams formally requested a consultative meeting with Mohammed at Kandanda House, arguing that several outstanding issues need to be addressed before the new campaign gets underway.
The clubs want clarity on the regulations that will govern the 2026/27 season, particularly in light of ongoing court cases surrounding the competition.
Clubs demand clarity on regulations
They have also raised concerns over sponsorship arrangements for NSL clubs and the support they expect from the federation during the upcoming campaign.
The teams are seeking direct engagement with the FKF president to establish a clear understanding of the rules, financial arrangements and other expectations ahead of the new season.
Their threat to halt the competition signals growing concerns among clubs over the outstanding administrative and operational issues, with the start of the second-tier league potentially affected if an agreement is not reached.
Concerns over sponsorship arrangements
The demand places pressure on the federation to engage the clubs and provide clarity on matters that could influence their preparations for the campaign.
However, it remains unclear whether FKF will grant the clubs' request for a meeting or how the federation intends to address the concerns raised in the letter.
The standoff comes as clubs prepare for another competitive season in the second tier, where teams will be seeking promotion to the Kenyan Premier League, the country's top-flight football competition.
Last season, Migori Youth FC emerged as NSL champions after collecting 81 points from 38 matches, securing promotion to the top flight following an impressive campaign.
They were joined by 3K FC and Mombasa United, who also earned promotion after navigating a competitive race for places in the top division.
The three clubs' promotion marked the culmination of their respective campaigns, while other NSL sides will now be looking to challenge for promotion in the 2026/27 season.
The latest dispute, however, raises questions about the administrative environment in which the next campaign will be played, particularly regarding the rules governing the competition and the sponsorship support available to participating clubs.
Impact of disputes on upcoming season
For the 19 clubs seeking talks, resolving these issues before the season begins is central to ensuring greater clarity as teams plan their budgets, assemble squads and prepare for the demands of the new campaign.
Attention now turns to whether Mohammed and the federation will respond to the clubs' request and whether the proposed meeting can resolve the concerns before they affect the start of the 2026/27 NSL season.
