Kariobangi Sharks launch appeal against FKF Premier League relegation
Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 08.06.26. | 19:26
But in an immediate riposte, Kariobangi Sharks have fired back and insisted that they do not agree with the decision and would appeal against it
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has officially confirmed that there will be no FKF Premier League promotion/relegation play-offs to determine the final team that will feature in next season’s top-flight.
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The move has immediately drawn a sharp reaction from Kariobangi Sharks, who finished in 16th place, raising fears that the matter could end up in court.
In a letter to Kariobangi Sharks by FKF Acting Secretary General Dennis Gicheru, the issue of relegation and promotion was decided on Friday, 19 September, 2025, during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
“During that said meeting, it was resolved that the KPL/NSL relegation-promotion play-offs be abolished and that at the end of this season, the three bottom KPL clubs will be relegated and three NSL sides shall earn direct promotion,” said Gicheru in the letter addressed to Kariobangi Sharks Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lynda Ambiyo.
Gicheru, therefore, insisted that in view of the above, there will be no play-offs in line with the NEC resolutions, which he insists took effect immediately.
But in an immediate riposte, Kariobangi Sharks have fired back and insisted that they do not agree with the decision and would appeal against it.
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In order for them to launch an appeal, Ambiyo asked FKF to furnish the club with various documents.
“We would like you to furnish us with a certified copy of the NEC Resolution of 19th September 2025 referred to in your letter.
“We make this request because Kariobangi Sharks FC did not receive any communication of this resolution at any point before or during the 2025/2026 season," she said.
Further, the club also wants a confirmation of the manner and date on which this resolution was notified to participating clubs in line with the requirements referenced in the FKF letter that teams will be informed of the rules of engagement before the start of the season.
“We further request your guidance on the appropriate internal mechanism for lodging this appeal and, in particular, which FKF body has jurisdiction to receive and determine the matter, together with the applicable procedure, timelines, and any filing requirements.
“Given that this matter is urgent and time-bound, with player registration and related deadlines now imminent, we respectfully request your response within 24 hours of this email,” concluded the letter.
Sources within the team said Sharks will fight to the end to ensure the play-offs are held, as FKF had not communicated at the beginning of the season that there would be no play-offs.
“Such a monumental decision requires the matter to go to the congress to be decided, as it affects the entire structure of the various leagues. We are not letting this one go because it is our right to feature in the play-offs,” said our source.