DR Congo fan Lumumba Vea stands still as support during matches
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 1:17 PM
Last updated Jun 23, 2026
Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, known as "Lumumba Vea," continues his unique tradition as a supporter of the DR Congo national soccer team during the 2026 World Cup. He stands motionless, honoring Patrice Lumumba, the country’s first prime minister, to embody emotional support for the players. This World Cup marks DR Congo's second appearance, the first being in 1974. Mboladinga arrived in Guadalajara just in time for the match against Colombia. Following this match, DR Congo will face Uzbekistan to complete the group stage.
- •Mboladinga symbolizes emotional support for DR Congo during the World Cup.
- •His tradition went viral during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
- •The team is currently in the group stage of the tournament.
- •DR Congo's next match is against Uzbekistan on Saturday.
- 1:17 PMYahoo Sports — Meet 'Lumumba Vea,' the DR Congo fan who stands still during matches
"Michel Nkuka Mboladinga has become a symbol of the national team after going viral during the Africa Cup of Nations.
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