Harambee Stars has officially pulled out of the CECAFA Four Nation Tournament being held in Arusha, Tanzania.
In a statement released on Monday, July 21, 2024, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed that the decision was made based on advice from the team’s technical bench.
“FKF wishes to inform the public that Harambee Stars has withdrawn from the CECAFA Four Nations Tournament in Tanzania,” read part of the statement.
The federation said the recommendation was made by head coach Benni McCarthy and his technical team after evaluating the conditions on the ground.
“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 preparations,” FKF stated.
The national team, which had already travelled to Tanzania and named a 25-man squad, will now return home to focus on preparations for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
CHAN 2024 will run from August 2 to 30 and will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Harambee Stars are scheduled to kick off their campaign against DR Congo on August 3 at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.
“FKF remains committed to providing the national team with the best possible environment to compete and represent the country with pride,” the statement concluded.