FIFA president Infantino in Kenya ahead of CHAN final

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has arrived in Nairobi ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) final, marking his first official visit to Kenya since taking over the reins of world football in 2016.

Infantino, who has led FIFA since February 2016 and is also a member of the International Olympic Committee, touched down on Friday and was received by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed.

Describing the visit as “a historic moment for Kenya,” Mohammed said Infantino’s presence underlines FIFA’s growing confidence in the country’s ability to host major football events.

The FIFA President is expected to be the chief guest at today's final between Madagascar and two-time champions Morocco at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

The high-stakes clash, kicking off at 6 p.m., will conclude a month-long tournament that began on August 2 and has showcased both footballing talent and Kenya’s organizational capacity.

Infantino’s visit coincides with a flurry of top-level football activity in Nairobi.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who arrived yesterday, is chairing an Executive Committee meeting involving all 54 African football federation heads at a city hotel.

Infantino is expected to attend the meeting before addressing the media alongside Motsepe and later proceeding to Kasarani for the grand finale.

Kenya’s Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya had on Friday assured of heightened security and smooth logistics to welcome the high-profile guests.

Adding further prestige to the occasion, Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina will also attend, cheering on his national team as they aim to better their 2023 bronze medal finish.

For Kenya, Infantino’s presence is more than symbolic. It is a vote of confidence as the country prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania.