Thomas 'Big Ted' Omollo, Stellar Sakina, Salim Waziri and Kennedy Nyamai / CHARLENE MALWAApproximately 56 teams will participate in the 2025 edition of the Waziri 1XBet Cup, which is set to kick off on October 16 in Webuye, Bungoma County.
The teams will compete in football, rugby and basketball, tournament founder Salim Waziri announced.
The sixth edition has received a boost of Sh2.5 million from 1XBet.
“This sponsorship will bring together the biggest and most community-focused event in the competition’s history,” Waziri said.
The tournament will start with qualifiers in Webuye (October 18–19), head to Kitale (October 21–22), Kakamega (November 4–5) and Eldoret (November 18–19).
The football knockout phase begins on December 16–17, followed by the quarterfinals (December 20–21), the semifinals (December 22), and culminates with the grand final on December 27 at Ilala Panpaper Stadium, Webuye.
Rugby and basketball qualifiers will be staged at MMUST Sports Grounds in Webuye, with playoffs set for December 23–24.
“I remember the first tournament, a few teams, enthusiasm and dreams. Today, Waziri 1xCup has dozens of teams, including women’s teams, strong support, and real change in communities. For young players, it’s an opportunity; for all of us, it’s the language that our hearts speak. Inspiring the young generation,” said Waziri.
He revealed that there will be empowerment initiatives for the youth, who will benefit from car-wash yards, salons and grocery stores. There will be charity work too, including the donation of wheelchairs, hygiene kits and food parcels.
“This tournament is not just about sports, but about community transformation,” Waziri added.
His vision is to involve at least 25 counties by the 10th edition, with finals at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi.
“We want this tournament to become a symbol that sports can be a tool for equal opportunities, unity and hope for the whole country,” 1XBet spokesperson Elena Zhdanova said.
“We’re proud that girls participate in the tournament on equal terms with the boys, receive equipment and support. Their dreams are important, and we’re here to help them come true.”
It’s the second time women's teams are featuring in the tournament.
“With Waziri 1xCup, I feel that my efforts are important, and my dreams are achievable,” said a women’s team player.
Tournament patron Thomas ‘Big Ted’ Omollo underlined their vision, saying: “Everything moves from glory to glory. This is a celebration of sports culture and talent. Our desire is for families to unite over sports, to celebrate and give local talent a platform to shine,” he said.
“Waziri 1XBet Cup offers a chance for a better life to everyone ready to take action,” former participant Winston Obure said. He now runs a grocery store with the help of tournament organisers.
