DR Congo superfan denied US visa for World Cup match against Uzbekistan
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 27, 2026, 7:35 PM
Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Michel Kuka Mboladinga will be absent from the Democratic Republic of Congo's crucial World Cup match against Uzbekistan on June 29 due to a visa denial. Mboladinga gained fame for his motionless tribute to Patrice Lumumba during games. Despite his recent delayed arrival in Mexico because of Ebola-related travel restrictions, the Congolese ambassador hopes Mboladinga will be granted a visa if the team advances. DRC must win this match to secure a spot in the knockout stage.
- •Mboladinga missed the June 29 match for a visa issue.
- •He is known for his tribute to Lumumba at DRC games.
- •The team must win to advance in the World Cup.
- •His arrival was previously delayed due to Ebola travel restrictions.
- •Congolese ambassador expresses hope for his possible future presence.
- 10:42 PMYahoo Sports — Famous DR Congo fan has been denied entry to the US during FIFA World Cup 2026
- 7:35 PMYahoo Sports — DR Congo superfan denied US visa to support team at World Cup
"Michel Kuka Mboladinga, a notable DR Congo super fan, has been denied a visa to enter the United States to watch his team in World Cup action. Mboladinga made headlines around the world during the Africa Cup of Nations for adopting a unique stance on the terraces during matches.
"Michel Kuka Mboladinga is iconic for his motionless tribute at DRC games, but a US World Cup repeat has been denied.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 27, 2026, 10:42 PMFamous DR Congo fan has been denied entry to the US during FIFA World Cup 2026
Michel Kuka Mboladinga, a notable DR Congo super fan, has been denied a visa to enter the United States to watch his team in World Cup action. Mboladinga made headlines around the world during the Africa Cup of Nations for adopting a unique stance on the terraces during matches.
- Yahoo SportsJun 27, 2026, 7:35 PMDR Congo superfan denied US visa to support team at World Cup
Michel Kuka Mboladinga is iconic for his motionless tribute at DRC games, but a US World Cup repeat has been denied.
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