By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Democratic Republic of Congo has relocated its pre-World Cup training camp from Kinshasa to Belgium following the recent Ebola outbreak in the country, as preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Congolese Football Federation confirmed the decision after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a global public health emergency, with hundreds of reported cases and rising fatalities.
Team spokesperson Jerry Kalemo said the move was necessary to guarantee the safety and wellbeing of players, officials, and staff as the Leopards prepare for their historic return to the World Cup stage.
Originally scheduled to hold camp in Kinshasa, DR Congo will now fine-tune preparations in Belgium, where the team is also expected to play international warm-up matches against Denmark on June 3 and Spain on June 9.
The Central African side has been drawn in a challenging Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. DR Congo will open their campaign against Portugal on June 17 in Houston before facing Colombia in Guadalajara on June 23 and Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 27.
FIFA has assured that it is closely monitoring the health situation while maintaining regular communication with the Congolese federation to provide medical and security guidance ahead of the tournament.
Meanwhile, the United States government has reportedly introduced temporary travel restrictions for individuals who recently visited DR Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan, although exemptions will apply to official World Cup delegations.
DR Congo recently unveiled a 26-man squad dominated by Europe-based players, including Premier League stars Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Yoan Wissa, Axel Tuanzebe, and Noah Sadiki. Officials confirmed that none of the invited players had returned to DR Congo during the outbreak period.
The Leopards secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Jamaica in the intercontinental playoffs, marking the nation’s first appearance at the tournament since 1974.
