President William Ruto shares a light moment with Gor Mahia striker Chris Ochieng at Stare House/HANDOUT President William Ruto on Sunday hosted newly crowned SportPesa League champions Gor Mahia at State House, Nairobi, rewarding the club with Sh10 million and pledging continued government support ahead of next season's CAF Champions League campaign.
The breakfast meeting brought together senior government officials, club management, coaches and players as Gor Mahia presented their record-extending 22nd league title to the Head of State.
The occasion combined celebration with renewed calls for greater investment in Kenyan football as the country's most successful club reflected on another title-winning season and looked ahead to continental competition.
Congratulating the champions, President Ruto hailed the club's consistency, discipline and resilience throughout the campaign.
"Congratulations Gor Mahia Football Club on winning the 2025/26 SportPesa League title and securing a historic 22nd league championship. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work, discipline and resilience that have defined your campaign throughout the season," he said.
The President noted that Gor Mahia's impact extends beyond football, saying the club's rich legacy continues to inspire generations of young Kenyans.
"For generations, Gor Mahia has occupied a special place in the hearts of football fans across our country. The club's rich legacy continues to inspire young Kenyans to pursue their dreams, embrace teamwork and strive for excellence," he said.
President Ruto called for increased support from both government and the private sector, saying sport has enormous potential to create opportunities for young people.
"We must continue creating an environment where talent can flourish. Corporate sponsors and stakeholders should invest more in our clubs because sport has enormous potential to transform lives and create opportunities for young people," said the President.
He challenged Gor Mahia to carry Kenya's hopes proudly in the CAF Champions League.
"As you prepare to represent our nation in the CAF Champions League, carry with you the pride and goodwill of all Kenyans," he said.
Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier thanked the government for recognising the club's achievement and described the State House reception as a significant moment for the club.
"I don't want to be called the President because I think in our constitution there is only one President in this Republic of Kenya. I am the chairperson of Gor Mahia Football Club," Rachier said.
He acknowledged the role played by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya in facilitating the event and highlighted the club's need for a permanent training facility.
"One of our biggest challenges remains access to quality and permanent training facilities. We hope that with the support of government and stakeholders, we can secure long-term solutions that match the stature of this great club," he said.
Rachier also paid tribute to Gor Mahia supporters and welcomed the President's support ahead of the club's continental campaign.
"Our fans remain our greatest asset. Through good and difficult times, they have stood with us and helped keep this club moving forward," he said.
Team captain Philemon Otieno thanked the President for recognising the players' efforts and assured him the team would represent Kenya with pride in Africa.
"We promise to give our best and represent Kenya with pride. The support we have received today motivates us even more to succeed in Africa," Otieno said.
The mood then shifted when the captain delivered a light-hearted request on behalf of the squad.
"Rais, team imenituma nikuambie uweke mawe," he said, using the popular Sheng phrase to ask for a substantial reward.
His remarks sparked laughter, with Ruto jokingly asking whether the players had genuinely sent him to negotiate on their behalf.
Moments later, the President announced a cash reward for the champions.
"I will arrange that each one of you leaves here with 100,000 first. I will send you another 10 million. Congratulations to SportPesa, Bwana Karauri and your team," he said.
The meeting ended with club officials presenting the league trophy and a signed Gor Mahia jersey to the President, capping a celebratory occasion as the champions turned their attention to the CAF Champions League.
