The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) confirmed that its national team, the Leopards, is strictly adhering to a 21‑day isolation protocol imposed by the United States government following an Ebola outbreak in northeastern DRC, forcing the squad to abandon its original training camp in Kinshasa and move to Europe weeks before their transatlantic flight to the World Cup.

During a videoconference with FIFA representatives, FECOFA officials demonstrated that all players and support staff are complying with Washington’s medical guidelines. To ensure eligibility and avoid immigration issues, the technical staff left Kinshasa on May 20 for an extended stay in Europe, where they will spend the mandatory quarantine period before boarding the flight to the United States.

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Federation officials emphasized that the vast majority of selected players already compete in European clubs, which substantially reduces any real epidemiological risk.

The Leopards’ pre‑World Cup preparation includes two European friendlies: against Denmark on June 3 in Liège, Belgium, and against Chile on June 9 in southern Spain. In Group K of the World Cup, DRC will face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.

Beyond the on‑field preparations, FECOFA has filed a formal complaint with FIFA, requesting that the world governing body coordinate refunds for tickets purchased by Congolese fans. The federation argues that U.S. visa restrictions, imposed due to the Ebola outbreak, prevent DRC supporters from traveling to the United States.

Congolese authorities have denounced the measures as disproportionate, given that the Ebola outbreak is located in Ituri province, approximately 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles) from Kinshasa.

The Ebola outbreak was formally notified by health authorities on May 15 in Ituri province. The World Health Organization has identified the Bundibugyo strain, which has caused 204 probable deaths to date. Despite the geographic distance, the U.S. has maintained strict entry requirements for travelers from DRC, including the 21‑day isolation for the football team.

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