FIFA World Cup 2026: DR Congo superfan Michel Kuka Mboladinga denied US visa
Atlanta, June 28
Democratic Republic of Congo superfan Michel Kuka Mboladinga will miss his country's crucial FIFA World Cup clash against Uzbekistan on Saturday after being denied a United States visa.
Mboladinga, who rose to prominence during the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco earlier this year, became known for his striking presence in the stands, where he stood motionless throughout DR Congo's matches as a tribute to former Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba, who was executed by firing squad in 1961, as per Reuters.
Mboladinga, who bears a striking resemblance to Lumumba, is known for wearing colourful suits in the national colours while supporting his team.
However, after attending DR Congo's previous match in Mexico, he will miss their must-win fixture in Atlanta, where they are aiming to secure qualification to the round of 32.
Congolese Ambassador in Washington, Kapinga Yvette Ngandu, said she hoped he would get a visa if DR Congo progressed to the knockout stage of the World Cup.
"I hope he brings his own brand of support to the team," she said on Saturday, as per Reuters.
Nicknamed "Lumumba Vea" for his tribute, Michel Kuka Mboladinga often raises his arm in a pose reminiscent of a statue of Patrice Lumumba in Kinshasa.
His distinctive style of support has earned him international attention, and upon returning from Morocco in January, he was gifted a jeep by the Congolese government.
Mboladinga was in the stands for DR Congo's last game against Colombia in Guadalajara, which they lost 1-0 on Tuesday, after belatedly arriving at the World Cup to bring his unique brand of support.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The way he stands motionless to honor Patrice Lumumba is such a powerful tribute. It's not just about football - it's about history, resistance, and identity. The US should appreciate this cultural significance instead of denying him entry. After all, sports bring people together, not divide them. #WorldCup #DRCongo
Honestly, the visa system is too harsh. Here's a guy who got a jeep from his government for his fan dedication, but the US won't let him in for a match? It's ridiculous. At least the ambassador is trying to help - that's some good diplomacy in action. Hope he gets his chance if DR Congo advances. 🤞
Never thought I'd see a fan like him - standing still for whole matches as a political statement. That takes serious dedication. Reminds me of how our desi fans paint themselves and dance for hours in the stands. Different styles, same passion for the beautiful game. USA please reconsider! 🙏
This is so unfair. He already made it to Mexico for a match, so clearly he's not a risk. The US should look at the bigger picture - this man is a cultural icon in DR Congo, and his support could inspire more people globally to follow football. The bureaucratic hurdles just seem unnecessary.
The US embassy should consider this case specially. Look at his story - he's not just any fan, he's a symbol of Congolese pride and history. Being a superfan should be celebrated, not
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