Lumumba Vea arrives in Guadalajara to support DR Congo against Colombia

DR Congo welcomes back its iconic supporter for its second match in Group K of the 2026 World Cup. Lumumba Vea, an emblematic figure in the Congolese stands, has announced his arrival in Guadalajara, Mexico, where the Leopards face Colombia on Wednesday, June 24 at 4 a.m. (Paris time).

Michel Kuka Mboladinga, known as Lumumba Vea, became known to the general public at the last Africa Cup of Nations by remaining motionless throughout all DR Congo matches, embodying the statue of Patrice Lumumba, a historic figure of Congolese independence. His character has since become a powerful symbol for the Leopards’ supporters.

His absence from the first match against Portugal was not a choice. Health restrictions imposed due to the Ebola epidemic in DR Congo required a 21-day quarantine in a third country before any entry into US territory. To enable him to obtain his visa within the required timeframe, Congolese authorities had set up a health bubble in Brussels.

The effort paid off. In a video posted on X, Lumumba Vea confirmed his arrival in Mexico, sparking enthusiasm among Congolese supporters hours before a crucial match. Following their hard-fought draw against Portugal (1-1) in their opening match, the Leopards are aiming for their first victory in the competition against a Colombian team that is among the group’s favorites.