DR Congo cleared for 2026 World Cup despite US Ebola restrictions

The Democratic Republic of Congo will be permitted to compete at the 2026 World Cup in the United States despite concerns surrounding new Ebola-related travel restrictions introduced by American authorities.

Uncertainty had emerged earlier this week after Washington announced tighter health measures targeting foreign travellers who had recently visited several Central African nations affected by the Ebola outbreak.

The restrictions apply to individuals who have been in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or South Sudan within the previous 21 days.

However, United States officials have now clarified that the Congolese national team, known as the Leopards, will still be authorised to enter the country for the tournament.

According to a US State Department official quoted by L’Équipe, the situation of the Congolese squad differs from that of ordinary travellers because the team is already expected to prepare for the competition in Europe before travelling to the United States.

That arrangement could place the players outside the direct scope of the restrictions.

The same official also explained that exemptions could still be granted if members of the squad had recently travelled to DR Congo, although strict medical procedures would need to be respected.

Those measures include mandatory testing and possible isolation requirements before entry into the United States is approved.

The exemption, however, will not extend to Congolese supporters travelling independently for the competition.

Fans from DR Congo will continue to face the standard entry conditions and health regulations currently imposed by US authorities.

For the side coached by Sébastien Desabre, the World Cup represents a historic occasion. The tournament will mark only the second appearance for DR Congo on football’s biggest stage following their participation in the 1974 edition.

The Leopards secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in the intercontinental play-off last March, sealing their return to the global competition after decades away from the tournament.

During the World Cup, DR Congo will be based in Houston and are scheduled to face Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K as preparations continue under heightened health monitoring.