Kenya to host 2026 WSH Elite Cup in Nairobi

Kenya will host the third edition of the WSH Elite Cup in Nairobi from December 9 to December 15, 2026. This inter-African continental soccer competition is organized by WSH and features youth academies across six age categories: Under 6, U-8, U-12, U-14, U-16, and U-18.

The tournament follows previous editions held in Tunisia in 2024 and South Africa last year. It serves as a precursor to the African Cup of Nations scheduled for East Africa next year. Event director Evans Chief stated during the Nairobi launch that the competition is designed to complement the work of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Invited participants include teams from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Liberia, Somalia, Rwanda, Morocco, Tunisia, and South Africa. The field includes youth structures from major clubs such as Morocco's Wydad Casablanca and Tunisia's Etoile du Sahel. Regional representatives include AFC Leopards Cubs from Kenya, Young Simba from Tanzania, and Uganda's Mentor Sports International Academy.

Local Kenyan entries feature Ligi Ndogo, the 2005 Private Secondary Schools' League winners, and Kakamega School, known as the Green Commandos. Defending the under 15 title are South Africa's BWS Academy and Kenya's Flair Feet Stars FC. Other invited sides include Zimbabwe's Direct Control School and South African academies such as Bulls, Olympia, and BWS.

International involvement extends to Europe, with an Italian club confirming its participation. To officiate the matches, a delegation of eight to nine qualified referees from Germany, including Referee Abroad and NFV Kreis Harburg, will attend. The competition is open to schools, youth academies, and junior national teams.

Matches will take place at several venues, including Nyayo National Stadium, Ulinzi Sports Complex, KCB Leadership Centre, and Gems Cambridge International School. Other locations include St Christopher’s International School Nairobi, Marist International University College, Banda School, Don Bosco grounds, and Utalii College.