Boost as Kenya Rugby League earns admission to IRL Board

After just eight years into existence, the Kenya Rugby League Federation (KRLF) has been admitted into the International Rugby League (IRL).

This comes as a big boost for the Rugby League as most of the eight years have been marred by wrangles over the co-existence with the Kenya Rugby Union.

IRL Secretary General, Danny Kazandjian welcomed the approval of KRFL as an observer member of IRL emphasising its gain to the sport. 

“The approval of Kenya Rugby League as a member of IRL demonstrates clearly the continued growth and appetite for the sport, particularly in the Middle East Africa (MEA) region.

I would like to congratulate KRLF and welcome them to the IRL community. I know how hard the Chair of KRLF, and his team have worked on this application, and I look forward to seeing them develop and prosper,” said Kazandjian.

The KRLF has also received a shot in the arm ahead of the Samburu 7s slated for July with the tournament majorly featuring Rugby League sides from across the globe with their league also still currently ongoing.

Middle East Africa (MEA) regional manager, Remond Safi admitted that the road to IRL recognition was a treacherous one but is bound to see the sport grow in the region.

“I am pleased that, after much significant groundwork, we finally have an organisation in Kenya that has been approved by IRL for membership. It has been a lengthy and complicated process to ensure that there is a robust governance process in place for further growth in the country, and their presence also strengthens the sport in East Africa,” said Safi.

With the admission, Kenya now becomes the 60th country to gain membership in IRL.