Kenyan football fans are anxiously waiting for clarity from the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) over whether they will be able to watch the upcoming FIFA World Cup on free-to-air television, as negotiations with FIFA continue behind the scenes.
The expanded 48-team tournament, scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to be one of the most-watched sporting events in history. However, uncertainty over broadcast rights in Kenya has left millions of fans worried about access.
Ongoing Negotiations Between KBC and FIFA
KBC is currently in talks with FIFA to secure free-to-air rights for select matches of the tournament. While discussions are ongoing, there has been no official confirmation released to the public.
A senior official familiar with the matter noted that clarity is expected soon.
If successful, KBC would provide Kenyan viewers with access to key World Cup matches without requiring a paid subscription.
While negotiations continue, pay-TV broadcasters are already preparing extensive coverage of the tournament. Platforms such as SuperSport and Azam TV have confirmed plans to air all 104 matches live.
These networks are positioning themselves as the primary destination for full tournament access, offering comprehensive coverage, analysis, and multi-channel viewing options.
The lack of a confirmed free-to-air deal has sparked concern among fans, many of whom rely on public broadcasters for major sporting events due to subscription costs.
In Kenya, football enthusiasts fear a repeat scenario where access to the world’s biggest tournament could be limited to those who can afford pay-TV services.
A confirmed deal between KBC and FIFA would ensure wider national engagement, especially for rural and low-income audiences who may not have access to subscription television services.
About the Author
