FIFA is closely monitoring a national Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) as the national team prepares to travel to the United States for the 2026 World Cup. The global soccer governing body stated it is in close communication with the Congo DR Football Association to ensure the team receives all necessary medical and security guidance. This development occurs just weeks before the tournament begins, adding a layer of complexity to the preparations for one of the newly qualified teams.
Travel Restrictions and Exemptions
The United States recently implemented a travel ban on citizens from DR Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan due to the outbreak. However, a Department of State official confirmed to Al Jazeera that the DRC national team is expected to enter the country through a travel exemption. The official noted that the team will be placed under the same protocol for testing and isolation that applies to American citizens returning from affected regions.
This exemption allows the team to proceed with their schedule despite the broader restrictions. The U.S. ban targets non-Americans who have been in the affected countries within the last three weeks, but diplomatic and sporting exemptions are being processed to ensure the integrity of the tournament.
Team Preparations Shift to Europe and Houston
DR Congo qualified for the World Cup in March after defeating Jamaica in extra time during the inter-confederation playoffs. A team spokesperson told Politico.com that their preparation program is proceeding as planned, though the original leg in Kinshasa has been canceled due to health restrictions. The team is now conducting its training camp in Europe and Houston.
The squad is scheduled to face Denmark and Chile in warm-up friendlies next month. Their World Cup campaign officially begins on June 17 against Portugal in Houston. They will also play against Colombia and Uzbekistan in the group stage. FIFA continues to work with the U.S. Department of State, the CDC, the Department of Homeland Security, Mexico’s Secretariat of Health, and the Public Health Agency of Canada to ensure a safe tournament.
