DR Congo’s World Cup Squad Meets U.S. Ebola Safety Standards, Says Ambassador

‘The Leopards are ready, they are safe, and the US will embrace this team,’ DRC’s ambassador to the US says.

Published On 28 May 202628 May 2026

The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s football federation (FECOFA) and FIFA have confirmed that the nation’s World Cup delegation complies with United States Ebola protocols, clearing the way for participation in the tournament.

Congolese officials said Wednesday that FECOFA held talks with FIFA this week and that the delegation now meets all health and safety requirements, including cancelling a training camp in Kinshasa and moving preparations abroad.

“I applaud FECOFA and FIFA for moving swiftly and decisively to make this responsible, reasonable determination,” DRC Ambassador to the US Yvette Kapinga Ngandu said in a statement.

“The Leopards are ready, they are safe, and I have no doubt that the United States will embrace this team.”

A team official had previously noted that preparations would continue as planned despite a U.S. requirement for a 21‑day isolation period before entry.

The United States is co‑hosting the June 11 to July 19 World Cup with Canada and Mexico.

The World Health Organization last week warned of a “very high” risk of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola spreading nationally in the DRC, with more than 1,000 suspected cases and 246 suspected deaths reported so far.

Most squad members are based in Europe, reducing direct exposure risk, while staff who left Kinshasa earlier this month will complete at least 21 days in Europe before traveling, in line with U.S. health guidelines.

“The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has done everything in its power to ensure they arrive in the United States prepared, protected, and ready to compete,” Sports Minister Didier Budimbu said.

Officials also raised concerns about fans who have purchased World Cup tickets but cannot obtain U.S. visas due to administrative restrictions, noting that discussions with FIFA about possible refunds are ongoing.

The Congolese team, making its first World Cup appearance in 52 years, will be based in Houston, Texas. They open their Group K campaign against Portugal on June 17, then face Colombia in Guadalajara on June 23 and Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 27.

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