This archive report was first published on 22 November 2019.
On November 20, 2019, Kenya Premier League (KPL) confirmed the expulsion of Sony Sugar from the league, a move that has left the club's future uncertain.
Sony Sugar, a Migori County-based club, had been a permanent fixture in the top-flight league since gaining entry in 1993.
However, the club's woes started in early August 2019 when title sponsors SportPesa announced the cancellation of all local sports sponsorship in Kenya due to a sour relationship between the gaming giants and the government regarding taxes.
As a result, Sony Sugar's financial situation deteriorated, and they began to struggle with match attendance and player payments.
On October 5, 2019, the club missed their home fixture against AFC Leopards, and on November 20, 2019, they failed to honour their match against Zoo FC, which led to their expulsion from the league.
According to KPL, Sony Sugar's expulsion is in line with the league's policy on failure to honour matches, as stated in articles 4.1.12 and 4.1.13 of the 2019 FKF Rules and Regulations.
The expulsion has significant implications for other clubs in the league, as Sony Sugar's results have been nullified, and the remaining league fixtures involving the club have been cancelled.
Clubs that have lost points as a result of Sony's expulsion include KCB, Bandari, Ulinzi Stars, Leopards, Tusker, Wazito, Mathare United, and Zoo, as well as Kisumu All Stars, who had drawn 1-1 with Sony.
