'Sasha' Mutai to federations: 'You can’t warn athletes against doping while some officials steal funds'

Alexander "Sasha" Mutai has made a triumphant return to Kenya’s sports leadership scene, calling for a holistic approach to sports governance after securing a seat on the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) executive. Mutai was elected as one of the three executive committee members with 14 votes, despite a turbulent run-up to the polls that saw his nomination controversially withdrawn by the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU).

Mutai, the former KRU chairman, overcame the challenge by seeking redress through the Sports Disputes Tribunal, which cleared him to vie. "I was duly nominated without doubt,"NOC-K was split into two factions and it’s now time to bring on board all the federations for us to work together and take care of the athlete.” he said.

He emphasized the need for long-term athlete preparation, particularly for the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games.

“Planning starts now. We must empower our athletes early with proper systems and accountability at every level,” he said, “Most especially, our long term successes, in both the 2028 and 2032 Olympics and even the upcoming Olympic Youth Games in Senegal next year,” he stated.

The rugby administrator also called out hypocrisy in leadership, noting that officials tasked with managing their various sports dockets should shun acts that might compromise integrity within their respective federations. 

“You can’t warn athletes against doping while some officials steal funds meant for development. Integrity must be our anchor and our athletes the first priority.”

Mutai’s return marks a new chapter in a career known for bold strides. At just 28, he was elected the youngest-ever director on the KRFU board. He made headlines by securing Kenya’s first-ever airline sponsor, Virgin Atlantic, and landing a ground-breaking kit deal with global brand KooGa.

His tenure as KRU vice-chair saw him negotiate a record Ksh 250 million broadcast deal with Zuku and launch an exchange partnership with South Africa’s Western Province Rugby Union. Having been elected chair, he is also credited with bringing back sponsors and also uplifting the performance of the national teams.

Now, Mutai insists the focus must shift from infighting to innovation. With his election secured, Mutai says the new leadership is ready to work with all stakeholders to restore credibility and deliver real impact across the sporting ecosystem.