World Cup 2026: DR Congo depart for USA ahead of historic return to global stage

The Democratic Republic of Congo have departed for the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the Leopards prepare for their long-awaited return to football’s biggest tournament.

Coach Sébastien Desabre and his squad left for America on Thursday, with the team expected to arrive in Houston, Texas, where they will establish their base camp for the competition jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The departure marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the Congolese national team, which is set to make its first World Cup appearance in 52 years. The players travel carrying the hopes of an entire nation as they prepare to compete against some of the world’s best teams.

Houston will serve as the Leopards’ headquarters throughout the group stage, allowing the squad to complete the final phase of their preparations before their opening match.

DR Congo have been drawn in Group K and will begin their campaign against Portugal on June 17. They will then face Colombia on June 24 before concluding their group-stage fixtures against Uzbekistan on June 28.

Despite their long absence from the tournament, the Congolese side arrives in North America full of belief after impressive performances during the qualification campaign. Desabre has built a competitive squad capable of challenging more established football nations, and expectations are growing among supporters.

For many players in the squad, the tournament represents a unique opportunity to write their names into the history books. The Leopards are determined not to simply make up the numbers but to compete strongly and pursue a place in the knockout stages.

As the World Cup gets underway, DR Congo’s return to the global stage stands as one of the tournament’s most compelling stories. After more than five decades away, the Leopards are back and eager to make their mark on football’s grandest stage.