The national football team of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing growing uncertainty regarding its participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States due to concerns surrounding the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the country.

According to Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House task force responsible for World Cup coordination, the Congolese team must remain isolated for 21 days in a controlled sanitary environment or risk complications that could affect its participation in the tournament.

Giuliani explained that U.S. authorities have communicated these requirements directly to FIFA, the Congolese Football Federation, and the government of the DRC. The measures are intended to reduce any potential health risks linked to Ebola before the arrival of players and staff in the United States.

The Congolese national team is currently training in Belgium, where it is also scheduled to play two preparation matches before the competition. Authorities reportedly requested that the team remain inside a strict “health bubble” during this period, limiting outside contact and closely monitoring players and officials.

As part of these preventive measures, the DRC canceled a planned three-day training camp and an official farewell ceremony that had been scheduled to take place in Kinshasa earlier this week.

The situation highlights the growing impact of health crises on international sports events. Ebola outbreaks have previously disrupted travel, economic activities, and public gatherings in several African countries, but this case demonstrates how global sporting competitions can also be directly affected.

The Ebola outbreak in the DRC has already raised concerns among international health authorities because of the rapid spread of the disease in certain regions. Although no cases have been officially linked to the football delegation, precautionary measures remain extremely strict due to the seriousness of the virus.

Football supporters in Congo have expressed disappointment over the cancellation of public events linked to the team’s World Cup preparations. For many fans, the tournament represents a historic opportunity for national pride and international visibility.

Despite the uncertainty, officials continue working with health authorities and international sports organizations to ensure that the Congolese team can safely participate in the tournament while respecting all medical protocols.