APR FC wants CAF to move Champions League tie out of DR Congo over Ebola concerns

Rwandan champions APR FC have formally asked the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to relocate their CAF Champions League first-leg preliminary round fixture against Aigles du Congo away from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Rwandan club has raised concerns over the conditions surrounding the scheduled encounter, with the health situation linked to the Ebola outbreak, security challenges and political tensions in the region among the key issues highlighted in its request.

The CAF Champions League preliminary rounds are scheduled to begin in September, with clubs across the continent preparing for the opening stage of Africa’s premier club competition.

APR FC are due to travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo for the first leg of their first preliminary round tie against Aigles du Congo on 5 September 2026.

However, the Rwandan champions are seeking a change of venue, asking CAF to stage the match in another country rather than the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The club’s request comes as concerns over health and security in the region continue to influence preparations for the new continental campaign.

APR FC has reportedly informed CAF that the Ebola situation is one of the factors behind its decision to request the relocation of the fixture.

The club has also pointed to security concerns and political tensions in the region, arguing that these issues could affect the safety and smooth organisation of the match.

For APR FC, the request is understood to be aimed at ensuring that the fixture is played in an environment that provides adequate safety and security for players, technical staff, officials and supporters.

The Rwandan side is now waiting for CAF to assess its concerns and determine whether the match can be moved to a neutral venue.

CAF, however, has not yet taken a final decision on the request.

The continental governing body is reportedly seeking additional clarification and more information from APR FC before determining whether there are sufficient grounds to approve the proposed change.

The situation puts the upcoming first-leg encounter under scrutiny, particularly with the qualifying rounds now approaching.

A change of venue would potentially require CAF and the participating clubs to make fresh logistical arrangements, including identifying an appropriate alternative stadium and ensuring that it meets the competition’s requirements.

It could also have financial and organisational implications for Aigles du Congo, who are scheduled to host the opening leg.

APR FC, meanwhile, will be hoping for a decision that addresses its concerns before the two clubs meet in September.

The Rwandan champions are preparing for another campaign on the continent and will be eager to avoid unnecessary disruption as they begin their pursuit of a place in the main stages of the CAF Champions League.

The first preliminary round is particularly important because it represents the opening hurdle on the road to the group stage. Any uncertainty surrounding the venue could therefore add another layer of complexity to the clubs’ preparations.

For Aigles du Congo, the match was expected to provide the advantage of playing the opening leg at home before travelling to Rwanda for the return fixture.

APR FC’s request, if approved, could effectively remove that traditional home advantage and force the first leg to be played at a neutral venue.

CAF’s next steps will depend on the additional information requested from the Rwandan club.

Until the governing body completes its assessment, the fixture remains scheduled for 5 September 2026 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The decision is now firmly in CAF’s hands, with APR FC’s concerns over health, security and regional political tensions likely to form the centre of the discussions before a final determination is made.