The Democratic Republic of Congo’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 have reportedly been disrupted after an Ebola outbreak forced the national team to cancel its planned pre-tournament training camp in Kinshasa.
According to reports, DR Congo will now hold its training camp in Belgium as health concerns continue to grow following the outbreak, which the World Health Organization (WHO) recently classified as a “public health emergency of international concern.”
The Leopards are set to make their FIFA World Cup 2026 debut against Portugal in Houston on June 17 before facing Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K.
Why has DR Congo shifted its World Cup camp?
The Athletic reported that the team abandoned plans to prepare in Kinshasa due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the country.
Jerry Kalemo confirmed the relocation, saying:
“The team’s training camp in Kinshasa has been cancelled. The camp will now take place in Belgium.”
DR Congo will reportedly face Denmark in a warm-up fixture in Belgium on June 3 before travelling to Spain for another preparatory match on June 9 ahead of the tournament.
The disruption comes after reports that more than 600 Ebola cases have been registered, with at least 139 suspected deaths linked to the outbreak.
FIFA monitoring the situation
FIFA confirmed it is in regular contact with the Congolese football federation and relevant authorities regarding the situation.
A FIFA spokesperson said:
“FIFA is aware of and monitoring the situation regarding an Ebola outbreak and is in close communication with the Congo DR Football Association to ensure that the team are made aware of all medical and security guidance.”
The governing body added that safeguarding players, staff and supporters remains its primary concern ahead of the tournament jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Could travel restrictions affect DR Congo?
According to the report, the United States has introduced temporary emergency public health measures restricting entry for travellers who have visited DR Congo within the previous 21 days.
The restrictions currently apply for 30 days and also cover recent travellers from Uganda and South Sudan, where Ebola cases have also been reported.
However, the measures include exemptions for official national team delegations participating in FIFA World Cup 2026, meaning DR Congo’s squad and staff are expected to be allowed entry into the United States for tournament matches.
DR Congo World Cup 2026 group and fixtures
DR Congo have been drawn into Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
DR Congo FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| DR Congo vs Portugal | June 17, 2026 | Houston |
| Colombia vs DR Congo | June 23, 2026 | Guadalajara |
| Uzbekistan vs DR Congo | June 27, 2026 | Atlanta |
The squad is expected to feature several Europe-based stars, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Yoane Wissa and Axel Tuanzebe as DR Congo prepares for its first appearance in the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup format.
The 2026 edition, running from June 11 to July 19, will be the first World Cup to feature 48 nations divided into 12 groups of four teams.
Story first published: Thursday, May 21, 2026, 15:12 [IST]
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