Harambee Stars withdraws from CECAFA tournament over poor conditions, shifts focus to CHAN 2024

Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has pulled out of the CECAFA Four-Nation Tournament in Tanzania, citing unsuitable training and logistical conditions that could undermine their preparation for upcoming fixtures.

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced the decision on Monday, following recommendations from the team’s technical bench, led by Head Coach Benni McCarthy.

“This decision has been made following recommendations and advice from the team’s technical bench, led by Head Coach Benni McCarthy, after a thorough assessment of the prevailing conditions, which were deemed unsuitable for the team’s participation and overall preparation,” FKF stated.

The tournament was scheduled to begin on Monday, July 21, with Kenya set to face hosts Tanzania in the opening game. However, the federation has now confirmed that the team will return home to focus on preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. Kenya will co-host the CHAN tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda starting this Saturday.

“Our focus now shifts fully to ensuring optimal readiness for the CHAN qualifiers,” FKF said.

According to the federation, the team had already landed in Tanzania on July 19 but opted to withdraw after internal consultations and a review of the available facilities.

FKF maintained that the move was necessary to safeguard the national team’s long-term performance goals.

“We remain committed to providing the national team with the best possible environment to compete and represent the country with pride,” the statement added.

Training will now resume in Nairobi under improved and better-controlled conditions.

Coach McCarthy, who took charge earlier this year, has repeatedly stressed the importance of quality preparations and professional standards in training.

Preparations for the CHAN tournament had received a major boost last week when President William Ruto visited the national team at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. Speaking to the players on July 16, the President pledged his full support and expressed confidence in their potential.

“I have come here as President of Kenya to say that we trust and believe in you. We believe in your capacity, we believe in your potential,” said Ruto.

“You represent the hopes and dreams of every Kenyan from every county, every background, every political side and every religion. We will support you, we will pray for you and we will be cheering you on with one voice,” he added after inspecting the CHAN venue.