Thousands of Arsenal supporters took over Nairobi’s CBD on Wednesday, May 27, gathering at the Kenya National Archives to celebrate the club’s Premier League title and what turned out to be a replica trophy.
A video from the event has since gone viral, sparking debate over whether the silver cup on display was the authentic Premier League trophy.
Dressed in red and white, fans erupted into chants, dancing and song as a man carefully lifted the trophy from a box and raised it aloft.
Firecrackers and fireworks lit up the evening sky as the celebrations continued, creating a lively atmosphere that lasted into the night.
The event, organised and sponsored by local Arsenal supporters led by social media content creator Useful Idioty, drew celebrities and public figures, including city official Geofrey Mosiria, who helped cut a ceremonial cake.
"As a proud Arsenal supporter, I can confidently say Arsenal sisi ni team kubwa! Through the difficult moments, near misses, and endless banter from rival fans, we remained faithful to the badge and today our patience has finally paid off," Mosiria wrote on social media.
As celebrations continued, some online users pointed out differences between the trophy on display and the official Premier League silverware.
The Premier League trophy is typically kept by the winning club until a new champion is crowned, although clubs sometimes present it during organised media tours.
Replica trophies are also commonly used at fan events and photo opportunities, and the Nairobi celebration appears to have featured one.
The large turnout briefly disrupted movement in parts of the CBD, causing traffic congestion and minor commotion, though no injuries were reported. Police provided security throughout the event until it dispersed peacefully.
Kenyan Arsenal fans are now hoping the club will bring the official trophy to the country for a larger celebration.
Arsenal’s 2026 Premier League triumph marks the end of a 22-year wait for the title, restoring the club to the summit of English football.
The win is seen as a strong validation of manager Mikel Arteta’s long-term project and has raised expectations for the squad’s future.
Arsenal are also set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday.
Here are some of the fan reactions:
@Martin Agesa commented, “Sato kutakuwa mwecheche, after beating PSG lets all assemble at Uhuru Park for celebration @Mosira apply for the permit and notify the police”
@Unique-e2v posted, “Ilikuwa moto Sana”
Photos: Courtesy of Pardley Gekara via Geoffrey Mosiria/FB