Schweinsteiger Brings Champions League Trophy to Kenya
Before the 2025 UEFA Champions League final unfolds at Munich’s Allianz Arena, Kenyan football fans are getting a special treat: the chance to see the iconic Champions League trophy up close.
The 7-kilogram silver trophy, widely regarded as one of the most prestigious prizes in club football, is currently on a global tour, with Nairobi marking its last stop in Africa before returning to Europe for the May 31 final.
Accompanying the trophy to Kenya is German football legend Bastian Schweinsteiger, who famously lifted the trophy with Bayern Munich in 2013. Schweinsteiger is joined by representatives from UEFA, Heineken, and Kenya Wine Agencies Limited, the official sponsors.
At a press briefing held Friday at Nairobi’s Serena Hotel, Schweinsteiger expressed his excitement about engaging with local fans. He also shared candid thoughts on football’s current landscape, including Manchester United’s Europa League campaign. “Credit to Harry Maguire, he’s had difficult times but kept trying. It’s a tough season for United, but the loyalty of their fans worldwide and at Old Trafford is incredible,” Schweinsteiger said.
Reflecting on Bayern Munich’s recent UEFA Champions League performances, he admitted the sting of their 2013 final loss to Chelsea remained vivid. “Losing that final was one of my worst defeats. This season, I hoped Bayern could end that pain, and while we’re on track to win the Bundesliga, the Champions League remains the ultimate prize,” he noted.
Schweinsteiger also spoke warmly about his tour experience in Africa. “Visiting Victoria Falls in Zambia and seeing the warmth of fans in Kenya has been incredible. Watching fans' eyes light up when they get near the trophy—it’s really special,” he said, sharing how local celebrations and dance moves inspired him.
On the growth of African football, Schweinsteiger highlighted Kenya’s potential and ambitions on the world stage. “Football is booming in Africa with immense talent. Kenya is getting closer to qualifying for the World Cup under coach Benni McCarthy, and I hope they make it. The passion here is what truly drives the game,” he said.
Addressing aspiring young footballers in Kenya, Schweinsteiger emphasized discipline and authenticity. “Love the game, work hard, and stay disciplined. The difference between good and great lies in self-motivation and mentality. Don’t just copy others—bring your own style, learn from others, and build strong foundations at your academies,” he advised.
This visit follows the trophy’s tour through Vietnam, Indonesia, South Africa, and Zambia, giving fans across continents a chance to connect with football’s heritage firsthand.
Jonas Geeraets, Commercial Director at Kenya Wine Agencies, explained the motivation behind bringing the trophy to Kenya: “We want to connect fans and families through the most aspirational football competition. Our ‘Cheers to the hardcore fans’ campaign celebrates those who live and breathe the game.”
Kenyan football history is closely intertwined with the Champions League. McDonald Mariga, FKF Vice President, remains the nation’s sole winner of the trophy, lifting it with Inter Milan during their 2009/10 triumph under Jose Mourinho. His brother, Victor Wanyama, came close with Tottenham Hotspur but fell short in 2019.
The trophy itself is the fifth iteration since its creation following Real Madrid’s successful bid to keep the original cup in 1967. UEFA’s rules on trophy ownership evolved over time, and while clubs once kept the trophy after multiple wins, the current practice issues replicas to winners, with the original remaining at UEFA headquarters.