Kenya Football Match Turns Ugly as Referee Is Attacked

Hillary Michael · Africa · Oct 13, 2026

A aKenyan football promotion play-off descended into chaos on Tuesday after referee John Sulwe was reportedly attacked by angry fans following a controversial penalty decision.

A aKenyan football promotion play-off descended into chaos on Tuesday after referee John Sulwe was reportedly attacked by angry fans following a controversial penalty decision. The violence occurred during the second leg of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League promotion/relegation play-off between Kariobangi Sharks and Mombasa United at the Ulinzi Complex Stadium.

The match was abandoned in the 66th minute after Sulwe awarded United a penalty following a challenge on one of their players inside the Sharks’ box. Sharks players immediately protested the decision, surrounding the referee as tensions escalated inside the stadium.

The situation quickly spiralled out of control when angry home supporters invaded the pitch and chased Sulwe around the playing area.

The referee was reportedly assaulted before security personnel intervened and managed to escort him away from the danger.

The match was subsequently called off, with Kariobangi Sharks leading 2-1 at the time of the abandonment.

The promotion/relegation tie had already been finely balanced after Mombasa United secured a 2-1 victory in the first leg at Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa. The winner of the two-legged contest was set to secure a place in the FKF Premier League for the season.

The fate of the abandoned fixture is now expected to be determined by the relevant football authorities.