NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 6 – Thousands of Kenyan football fans will have the chance to experience the magic of the FIFA World Cup trophy when it’s put on display at the Nyayo National Stadium on November 14.Coca Cola senior franchise brand manager Pamela Mutua said on Friday that they shifted the venue from Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani which on the same day will also stage the Africa Nations Cup qualifier between Harambee Stars and Nigeria due to security concerns.
“We held discussions with FKL (Football Kenya Limited) about sharing the venue but they could not guarantee adequate security,” said Mutua.
“The interest to attend this event has also been overwhelming so we’ve decided to move it to Nyayo National stadium so that more consumers can attend and share this unique experience,” she added.
Mutua indicated that football lovers stand to have the time of their lives as they will come to within touching distance of the trophy previously held by Maradona, Romario and Zinedine Zidane.
“There are going to be so many activities taking place on the day. There will be lots going on for everyone,” said Mutua.
She also announced that a big screen will be erected on the grounds for fans to monitor the match between Stars and the Super Eagles.
The iconic trophy which is currently in Namibia will arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on November 12 where it will be received by a government delegation.
The following day it will be displayed at a VIP luncheon at the Safari Park hotel followed by an appearance at a cocktail event for business leaders at Fairmont’s Norfolk Hotel.
The trophy will go through 86 countries traveling 134,017 kilometres. In 2006, the trophy visited 29 countries covering 102,570 kilometres.
The first leg of the tour will end on December 3 in Cape Town, South Africa in time for the FIFA World Cup draw the next day.
The trophy is currently held by four time winners Italy who beat France in a penalty shootout after a one all draw.