President William Ruto has announced that the Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi will officially open on January 5, 2027, with a historic football match between German club Bayern Munich and Dutch side Ajax.

The President made the announcement on Wednesday, October 28, during a visit to the newly constructed sporting facility in Nairobi.

Ruto said the opening match would bring together two of Europe's most successful football clubs, providing an international platform to showcase Kenya's growing sporting ambitions.

Bayern Munich and Ajax have collectively won Europe's premier club competition ten times, making them suitable opponents for the stadium's opening ceremony.

The President also linked the fixture to the legacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whose name the stadium bears.

He noted that Raila had studied in Germany, making the arrival of a leading German football club a fitting tribute to the late political leader.

Ruto also highlighted Ajax's reputation for developing young football talent, drawing a connection between the club's academy and the name Talanta, which represents talent.

He said the opening event would demonstrate Kenya's ability to build world-class sporting facilities and attract international sporting events.

According to the President, the ceremony will be financed through corporate partnerships and a commercially sustainable model designed to reduce reliance on public resources.

The government expects the stadium to attract private investment, create employment opportunities and generate revenue through sporting events and other activities.

The opening will also form part of Kenya's preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda.

The three East African nations are working together to prepare facilities and services required to host the continental football tournament.

The preparations include stadium infrastructure, transport systems, accommodation and other essential services for visiting teams, officials and supporters.

Ruto said the new facility would demonstrate Kenya's readiness to welcome international visitors and compete for major sporting events.

The Bayern Munich and Ajax encounter is expected to attract significant attention as the country strengthens its position as a regional sporting destination.

The government hopes the stadium will support football development, promote tourism and create new economic opportunities.

The January 5 event will mark an important milestone in Kenya's preparations for the continental tournament.