After weeks of uncertainty, Gucha Stars FC have been confirmed as participants in the 2025/26 FKF National Super League (NSL) following a ruling by the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee. The decision comes in the wake of a rescheduled promotion playoff match against Nakuru Bucks, which was abandoned late into the second half under chaotic circumstances.

The highly anticipated playoff, played on Friday, 26th September 2025 at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, was marred by controversy from the outset. Gucha Stars had lodged a formal protest before kickoff, questioning the eligibility of several Nakuru Bucks players. Despite the protest, the game went ahead , albeit with a delayed start and Gucha went on to lead 2-0 by the 86th minute.

However, the match was abruptly halted when the assistant referee was accosted by a section of fans, rendering him unable to continue officiating. With only minutes left on the clock, the game was officially abandoned, prompting FKF to refer the matter to its Leagues and Competitions Committee for a final decision.

In a ruling issued on 30th September 2025, the Committee dismissed Gucha’s protest over player eligibility, stating that it lacked merit. Crucially, it also upheld the match result as it stood at abandonment , Gucha Stars 2, Nakuru Bucks 0 , effectively confirming Gucha’s promotion to the second tier.

“The results of the match at the time of abandonment shall be upheld,” read the official letter signed by Peter Kamau, Chairperson of the FKF Leagues and Competitions Committee.

The decision means Gucha Stars now join Kabati Youth FC as confirmed entrants into the 2025/26 National Super League. The final available promotion slot will be decided through a playoff between Soy United and Bumbani Stars, with the winner set to join Gucha and Kabati in the second tier.

This clarification brings the three-team promotion race into clearer focus. While Gucha’s place is now secured following the abandoned match ruling, Soy United still have one final hurdle to clear. For Compel SC, the campaign ends in disappointment, they will remain in FKF Division One and prepare for the upcoming season at that level.

The resolution brings much-needed clarity to a promotion process that had been clouded by administrative delays, disputes, and on-field disorder. It also signals the end of the NSL’s preseason uncertainties, with the 20-club lineup nearly finalized.

The FKF’s League and competition decision below.