The Democratic Republic of Congo has cancelled a planned three day World Cup training camp and farewell event in Kinshasa following the recent Ebola outbreak in the eastern part of the country.
The outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, which has reportedly resulted in more than 130 deaths and nearly 600 suspected cases. The World Health Organization has already declared the situation a public health emergency of international concern.
Despite the cancellation of activities in Kinshasa, the Congolese national football team will continue with its scheduled preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Team spokesman Jerry Kalemo confirmed that only the Kinshasa stage of the preparation programme was affected while other international training activities would continue as planned.
“There were three stages of preparation. The Kinshasa stage to say goodbye to supporters has been cancelled, but preparations in Belgium, Spain, and the United States will continue,” Kalemo explained.
According to him, DR Congo will still play international friendly matches against Denmark in Liege on June 3 and Chile in Spain on June 9 before moving to Houston in the United States for the final stage of preparation starting June 11.
Most of the Congolese players and head coach Sébastien Desabre are based abroad, particularly in France, which has made it easier for the team to continue preparations outside the country despite the health concerns.
FIFA also confirmed that it is closely monitoring the Ebola outbreak and maintaining regular communication with the Congolese Football Federation to ensure the team receives proper medical guidance and security support ahead of the tournament.
The World Cup appearance marks a historic moment for DR Congo as the country prepares to participate in the competition for the first time since 1974.
Congo will begin their World Cup campaign against Portugal in Houston on June 17 before facing Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K.
Health authorities in the country continue to intensify surveillance and response efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the deadly virus.
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