The Kenyan Premier League (KPL) is the top professional football league in Kenya, and it has a rich history that dates back to 1963. Over the years, the league has grown in popularity, and it is now considered one of the most valuable sporting events in the country. In this blog, we will discuss the history and value of the KPL, its biggest teams, the best players, the best 11 in 2023, and what the future holds for the league.

History and Value of the KPL

The Kenya Premier League was established in 1963, and it has been the pinnacle of football in Kenya ever since. The league has undergone many changes throughout its history, and it has seen various sponsorship deals, mergers, and ownership changes. In 2013, the league was renamed the SportPesa Premier League after signing a sponsorship deal with SportPesa, a sports betting company. However, the sponsorship deal was terminated in 2019, and the league is now known as the FKF Premier League.

Value of the Kenya Premier League in 2023

The Kenya Premier League is valued at KES 1.2 billion (USD 11 million) in 2023, making it one of the most valuable leagues in East Africa. The league has attracted significant investment from local and international investors, and this has helped to improve the quality of the league and the players who participate in it..

Biggest Teams in the KPL

There are 18 teams that currently compete in the KPL, but some teams are more popular than others. The biggest teams in the KPL are:

1. Gor Mahia FC

2. AFC Leopards

3. Tusker FC

4. Sofapaka FC

5. Ulinzi Stars

Gor Mahia FC is currently the most successful team in the KPL, having won the league title 19 times. AFC Leopards is also a popular team, and they have won the league title 13 times.

Best Players in the KPL

Best Players Who've Emerged from the Kenya Premier League

The Kenya Premier League has produced some of the best football players in East Africa, and these players have gone on to play for some of the top teams in Africa and Europe. Some of the best players who have emerged from the Kenya Premier League include

Victor Wanyama

Michael Olunga

Dennis Oliech

Musa Mohammed

Francis Kahata

Allan Wanga

Anthony Akumu

McDonald Mariga

Joash Onyango

Eric Ouma

Best 11 in 2023

Based on current form, the best 11 in the KPL in 2023 would be:

1. Boniface Oluoch (Gor Mahia FC) - Goalkeeper

2. Collins Shivachi (Sofapaka FC) - Right Back

3. Samuel Olwande (Kariobangi Sharks) - Center Back

4. Joash Onyango (Gor Mahia FC) - Center Back

5. David Owino (Zesco United) - Left Back

6. Kenneth Muguna (Gor Mahia FC) - Central Midfielder

7. Lawrence Juma (Gor Mahia FC) - Central Midfielder

8. George Odhiambo (Gor Mahia FC) - Right Winger

9. Michael Olunga (Kashiwa Reysol) - Striker

10. Elvis Rupia (AFC Leopards) - Striker

11. Cliff Nyakeya (FC Masr) - Left Winger

Derbies Played

There are several derbies played in the Kenya Premier League, and they are some of the most highly anticipated matches in the league. Some of the most popular derbies include:

Mashemeji Derby - AFC Leopards vs Gor Mahia

Nairobi Derby - AFC Leopards vs Tusker FC

Coastal Derby - Bandari FC vs Mombasa-based teams

Richest Clubs and their Values as of 2023

The future of the KPL is bright, as the league continues to attract more sponsors and international attention. The league has also started to invest in youth development.