DR Congo’s iconic supporter, Michel Kuka Mboladinga. Photo: BBC
DR Congo’s iconic supporter, Michel Kuka Mboladinga, made his first appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the Leopards’ Group K clash against Colombia after missing the team’s opening match due to an Ebola-related quarantine.
Popularly known as “Lumumba Vea,” Mboladinga is renowned for dressing and posing like Patrice Lumumba, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s first prime minister. He is often seen standing motionless throughout matches with his right arm raised in a symbolic gesture.
The celebrated fan missed DR Congo’s surprise 1-1 draw against Portugal after being placed under a 21-day quarantine following Ebola outbreaks in his home country, BBC reports.
Having completed the mandatory isolation period, Mboladinga rejoined the Congolese delegation and was present at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara for the team’s second Group K fixture. Related News FULL LIST: 2026 World Cup top scorers after round two Panama out of World Cup after 1-0 loss to Croatia Colombia beat DR Congo 1-0 to reach World Cup knockouts
