On April 15, DR Congo officials announced that the country's football association (FECOFA) has negotiated with FIFA over the past week and the delegation now fully complies with medical safety procedures, including canceling a training camp in Kinshasa and moving preparation sites abroad.
DR Congo's ambassador to the US, Yvette Kapinga Ngandu, said: “I commend FECOFA and FIFA for acting quickly and decisively to reach this responsible and reasonable decision. The Leopards are ready, they are safe, and I have no doubt that the US will welcome this team.”
Earlier, a team official stated on April 12 that preparations would continue as planned despite the US requiring individuals to complete a 21-day quarantine before entry. The US is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup from June 11 to July 19 with Canada and Mexico.
The World Health Organization (WHO) last week warned of a “very high” risk of nationwide spread of the Ebola Bundibugyo strain in DR Congo, with over 1,000 suspected cases and 246 suspected deaths reported to date.
The majority of team members live in Europe, reducing direct exposure risk. Staff who left Kinshasa earlier this month will complete at least 21 days in Europe before traveling to the World Cup, complying with US health guidelines.
Sports Minister Didier Budimbu affirmed: “The DR Congo government has done everything to ensure the players arrive in the US prepared, protected and ready to compete.”
Officials also raised concerns about fans who bought World Cup tickets but could not obtain US visas due to administrative restrictions, and said discussions with FIFA about possible refunds are ongoing.
DR Congo's team, making its first World Cup appearance in 52 years, will be based in Houston, Texas. They open Group K against Portugal on June 17, then face Colombia in Guadalajara on June 23 and Uzbekistan in Atlanta, Georgia on June 27.
