Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam will open Kenya’s new 60,000-capacity Raila Odinga International Stadium with a high-profile friendly on January 5, 2027, as the East African country prepares to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations.

According to Reuters, both European clubs confirmed on Wednesday that they would meet in Nairobi for the opening match at the newly built venue, formerly known as Talanta Stadium.

Kenyan President William Ruto announced the fixture, describing it as a historic occasion that would bring two of European football’s biggest clubs to the country.

Bayern Munich, the German champions, and Ajax, the Dutch giants, have both enjoyed success in European competition. Their meeting is expected to attract significant interest from Kenyan supporters, with Bayern striker Harry Kane among the star names fans could hope to see in action.

Ajax described the event as the opening of a special new stadium before a huge African audience, calling it a defining moment for Kenya on the road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The stadium, located along Ngong Road in Nairobi, has a reported capacity of 60,000 and is a key part of Kenya’s preparations for the continental tournament, which it will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

The venue was named after former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who died in October 2025. Ruto said the decision honoured Odinga’s love of football and his connection with the sport.

The president described the facility as Kenya’s first purpose-built football and rugby stadium and the country’s first new international stadium since the opening of Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in 1987.

The stadium features a hybrid playing surface, 52 skyboxes, and video assistant referee and goal-line technology, according to Ruto.

Beyond the opening friendly, the venue is expected to play a major role in Kenya’s efforts to host international football events and strengthen its sporting infrastructure ahead of the 2027 AFCON.

Ruto also said the Bayern-Ajax fixture would be delivered through corporate partnerships and a commercial model designed to attract private investment and generate revenue.

The January 5 match will give Kenyan fans an opportunity to watch two prominent European clubs in Nairobi while offering the new stadium a high-profile launch ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.