Gor Mahia FC chairman Ambrose Rachier has praised the club’s supporters for their improved conduct, saying hooliganism is gradually becoming a thing of the past in Kenyan football.
Rachier made the remarks after Gor Mahia’s shocking 1-0 defeat to BB Bread FC in the Mozzart Bet Cup Round of 32 clash played on Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Despite the disappointing result that knocked the record Kenyan champions out of the domestic cup, the veteran football administrator chose to highlight a major positive: the transformation in fan behavior inside stadiums.
Rachier Applauds Fans’ Discipline
Speaking after the match, Rachier said Gor Mahia supporters have significantly changed their conduct over the years, noting that the violent scenes that once characterized local football matches are now rare.
According to him, the calm atmosphere witnessed during the match is proof that football fans are embracing a more mature approach to supporting their teams.
“First of all, I want to really appreciate the conduct of our fans. It has completely changed and been transformed. There is really no fear,” said Rachier.
He pointed out that even after Gor Mahia suffered a painful loss to lower-tier opposition, fans remained disciplined and supportive without causing chaos.
Fan Education Playing a Key Role
Rachier credited the transformation to continuous fan education programs carried out by Gor Mahia supporters’ branches across the country.
The chairman explained that these branches have played a crucial role in educating fans about the importance of maintaining good behavior during matches.
“The branches have played a very important role in explaining to fans the importance of good conduct,” he noted.
He added that exposure to international football has also influenced Kenyan fans positively.
Many Gor Mahia supporters closely follow clubs in the English Premier League, where even the biggest teams sometimes lose without fans resorting to violence.
Good Conduct Boosts Stadium Attendance
Rachier further emphasized that eliminating hooliganism helps improve the image of football in Kenya and encourages more supporters to attend matches.
According to him, a safe and welcoming stadium environment increases attendance, which ultimately boosts revenue for clubs and the league.
“The absence of hooliganism helps to encourage attendance and hence income,” Rachier explained.
He urged fans to continue maintaining discipline and supporting their teams positively, regardless of results on the pitch.
Focus Shifts to the League Title
While the cup exit was a setback for the club’s ambitions of winning a domestic double, Rachier insisted that Gor Mahia must now shift their focus to the league campaign.
The record Kenyan champions remain one of the favorites to compete for the Kenya Premier League title this season.
Rachier concluded by encouraging fans to continue supporting the team while maintaining the positive image that Gor Mahia supporters have built in recent years.
“When we improve the image of football in this country, it benefits everyone.”
