DR Congo’s famous statue fan makes World Cup debut against Colombia

DR Congo’s famous supporter, Michel Kuka Mboladinga, made his first appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the Leopards’ Group K encounter against the Colombia national football team after missing the country’s opening match due to an Ebola-related quarantine.

Popularly known as “Lumumba Vea”, Mboladinga is renowned for dressing and posing like Patrice Lumumba, DR Congo’s first prime minister. He is known for standing motionless throughout matches with his right arm raised in tribute to the late nationalist leader.

The passionate supporter was absent from DR Congo’s shock 1-1 draw against the Portugal national football team after undergoing a mandatory 21-day quarantine linked to Ebola outbreaks in his home country.

Having successfully completed the isolation period, Mboladinga rejoined the Congolese delegation ahead of the crucial clash in Guadalajara.

Mboladinga, who has described his tribute to Lumumba as a “sign of peace” for his country, rose to international prominence during the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where his distinctive appearance attracted widespread attention from football fans around the world.

At Estadio Akron, he was warmly received by both Congolese and Colombian supporters, posing for photographs before taking his place in the stands and resuming his trademark silent show of support.

However, his return did not inspire a positive result for the Leopards, who suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia after a deflected effort from Daniel Muñoz proved decisive.