Mombasa United FC have secured promotion to the 2026/27 SportPesa League after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) awarded them a 2-0 victory over Kariobangi Sharks FC in their abandoned promotion play-off second leg.

The FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee announced the decision on Friday, October 9, following an incident that forced the match at Ulinzi Sports Complex to be abandoned on Tuesday, October 6.

Play was halted in the 64th minute after Kariobangi Sharks players protested a penalty awarded to Mombasa United by the centre referee.

According to the committee's findings, the situation escalated when Kariobangi Sharks kit manager Patrick Paul Otieno and a section of the club's supporters allegedly invaded the pitch and physically assaulted the referee.

The referee was examined by the medical team and subsequently informed the match commissioner that he could not continue officiating. The incident was reported at Lang'ata Police Station before the fixture was officially abandoned.

FKF Awards Mombasa United a 2-0 Victory

After hearing the case on October 9, the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee ruled that Kariobangi Sharks had forfeited the second-leg match, awarding Mombasa United a 2-0 win.

The committee based its decision on Articles 3.3.2 and 3.3.3 of the Rules and Regulations Governing Kenyan Football (2019).

The ruling settled the promotion play-off in Mombasa United's favour, securing the club a place in Kenya's top-flight football competition for the 2026/27 season.

The decision also brings an end to the immediate uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the abandoned fixture, allowing Mombasa United to begin preparations for the new campaign.

Disciplinary Proceedings to Follow

| Photo: X: Carol Radull

| Photo: X: Carol Radull

While confirming the result and Mombasa United's promotion, the committee referred matters relating to violence and misconduct during the match to the FKF Disciplinary Committee for further proceedings.

The referral means the alleged incidents will be considered separately, with the disciplinary body expected to determine any appropriate sanctions in accordance with the applicable football regulations.

The outcome of those proceedings could have further implications for the individuals and parties involved.

For Mombasa United, the ruling provides a clear outcome to the promotion contest and confirms their participation in the 2026/27 SportPesa League, subject to any applicable further proceedings.

The club will now turn its attention to preparing for the upcoming season as the federation's disciplinary process continues.