DR Congo waited 52 years for World Cup - now Ebola could keep their fans out

For the first time in more than half a century, DR Congo are heading to the World Cup. But while the Leopards prepare for their long-awaited return to football's biggest stage, thousands of their supporters may be left watching from home.

And now the country's football federation wants FIFA to step in. They have officially asked FIFA to refund World Cup tickets purchased by fans who are suddenly unable to enter the United States because of Ebola-related travel restrictions introduced ahead of the 2026 tournament.

The situation escalated after the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a public health emergency on 16 May following a growing Ebola outbreak across central and East Africa. More than 900 suspected cases and over 220 suspected deaths have already been reported, with the overwhelming majority linked to DR Congo.

As a result, the United States suspended entry for non-American citizens who have recently been in DR Congo, Uganda or South Sudan, while the US embassy in Kinshasa also halted visa services.

For Congolese supporters who had already spent heavily to follow their national team at the World Cup, the timing could hardly be more devastating.

"We asked FIFA if they could take this situation into consideration because the tickets are very expensive," said Veron Mosengo-Omba, president of the Congolese football federation.

"They are being punished because they cannot enter the US to support their team.

"We do not want our supporters, who love football and love the World Cup, to lose everything."

DR Congo are scheduled to open their campaign against Portugal in Houston on June 17, meaning fans would effectively need to leave the country immediately to satisfy the US' 21-day entry restrictions.

DR Congo cancel their World Cup preparations due to Ebola outbreak

FIFA has not yet committed to refunds, although the governing body confirmed it would “look into” the request. Under standard policy, World Cup tickets are generally only eligible for resale or transfer unless exceptional circumstances apply.

In the meantime, many Congolese supporters are already changing plans, reports the BBC.

With the Leopards' second group-stage match against Colombia taking place in Guadalajara, Mexico is now expected to become the primary destination for travelling DR Congo fans. Supporters are also hoping the team can progress far enough to potentially play knockout matches in Canada rather than return to the United States.