Kenyan Arsenal Fan Enjoys Free London Flight, VIP Treatment After Winning Global Project

Arsenal fans, Adrian Ntwatwa (left) and Sam Ruguna hold their custom Arsenal jerseys at the Emirates Stadium, London on May 14, 2023.
Arsenal fans, Adrian Ntwatwa (left) and Sam Ruguna hold their custom Arsenal jerseys at the Emirates Stadium, London on May 14, 2023.
Photo
Arsenal.com

A Kenyan-based Arsenal fan was treated to an memorable experience after emerging among the winners in the Global Gunners project with the club's main sponsor, Emirates. 

According to the official club statement, Adrian Ntwatwa was flown from Nairobi to London with anticipation of receiving the match day experience of a lifetime. 

Upon his arrival, he was received by Arsenal legend, Gilberto Silva, who acts as the club's ambassador. 

The 33-year-old was then driven to the stadium where he got reunited with his long-time friend and fellow Gooner fan, Sam Ruguna from Uganda. According to Ntwatwa, the meetup was unexpected as he had not interacted with Sam for over a decade. 

Arsenal fans, Adrian Ntwatwa (centre) and Sam Ruguna engage the media at Emirates Stadium on May 14, 2023.
Arsenal fans, Adrian Ntwatwa (centre) and Sam Ruguna engage the media at Emirates Stadium on May 14, 2023.
Photo
Arsenal.com

"Thank you, Emirates, for giving me this opportunity and for re-connecting me with Sam who I haven't seen for so long," he indicated.

The duo was treated to a behind-the-scenes stadium tour - which included a chance to visit the press conference room and shake the hands of Arsenal players as they arrived at the stadium ahead of the Brighton game.

In addition, the pair also watched the team warm-up minutes before the match. To cap it off, they graced the VIP Executive box and watched the game for the full 90 minutes alongside Silva. 

Despite an unfortunate outcome with the Gunners losing 3-0 to the Seagulls, Ntwatwa was exhilarated for experiencing the live match alongside a legend.

“This has been the experience of a lifetime for me, it’s been a pleasure meeting you, you’ve been amazing," he told Silva.

While showing off Arsenal shirts branded with their names, Ntwatwa concluded by stating: “Thank you Emirates. This has been the best day of my life, after my wedding day!”

How much it costs for an Arsenal game?

According to Arsenal.com, a VIP package costs an average of Ksh1 million and accommodates around 10-15 persons.

Depending on where one books a seat at the stadium (either upper or lower tier), a normal ticket goes for around Ksh12,468 to Ksh22,375.

The global Gooner project is a partnership where Arsenal and their club sponsor Emirates work together to reunite fans globally who are treated to a one-of-a-kind experience.

Arsenal finished second in the Premier League 2022/2023 campaign despite spending 248 days at the top of the table. Unstoppable Manchester City defended the title for a third time in a raw with goal machine Erling Haaland being crowned the player of the season. 

Arsenal fans, Adrian Ntwatwa (centre) and Sam Ruguna (left) pose for a photo alongside Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva on May 14, 2023.
Arsenal fans, Adrian Ntwatwa (centre) and Sam Ruguna (left) pose for a photo alongside Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva on May 14, 2023.
Photo
Arsenal.com