"Lumumba Vea" Supported the DRC from the Stands

The iconic supporter of the DRC, "Lumumba Vea," finally made it to the Americas to support his team. After being blocked due to travel restrictions related to the spread of the Ebola virus, he was spotted in the stands in Guadalajara for the match against Colombia on the night of Tuesday to Wednesday. Published on: 24/06/2026 - 06:31

The famed supporter of the Leopards, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, had finally attended a DRC match in the World Cup, in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, Mexico, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Michel Kuka Mboladinga, now better known as "Lumumba Vea" since the CAN in Morocco, was able to strike the pose that made him famous. Standing upright in the stands in Guadalajara, mimicking the posture of former Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba, the most recognized supporter of the Leopards finally witnessed a DRC match during this American World Cup.

Observing the Colombia - DRC match from the stands of the Akron Stadium was not an easy journey for "Lumumba Vea." He had arrived in Mexico the day before, after missing the Leopards' opening match against Portugal in Houston due to travel restrictions imposed on individuals traveling from the DRC as part of the fight against the Ebola virus.

According to statements from RDC Sports Minister Didier Mudimbu, relayed by the online media Actualite.cd, Michel Kuka Mboladinga had to adhere to a 21-day quarantine due to the ongoing epidemic in the region. The government established a health bubble in Brussels, where the Leopards played their last warm-up match. After completing the quarantine period, "Lumumba Vea" and several other supporters were able to fly to America. Ultimately, he found his place in the stands, on his usual platform, to cheer for the DRC amidst a stadium largely dominated by Colombia fans. Unfortunately, his presence could not prevent the Leopards' defeat, who ultimately succumbed to Colombia.