The iconic DR Congo superfan Michel Kuka Mboladinga, widely known as ‘Lumumba’, has officially been included in the country’s FIFA World Cup delegation.
The decision reportedly followed a special request from the national team players, which was fully approved by President Félix Tshisekedi.
As part of the arrangement, all his flights, accommodation, match tickets and visa expenses will be fully covered.
Lumumba first rose to prominence during the AFCON 2025 tournament in Morocco, where he captured the admiration of football fans across Africa for his unwavering loyalty and unique style of support.
He became famous for standing perfectly still throughout the entire 90 minutes of matches, with one arm raised in tribute to Patrice Lumumba, Congo’s first prime minister and a lasting symbol of national pride.
DR Congo Leopards fans praised “Lumumba” for his unmatched passion and loyalty to the national team.
One X user, Lethogonolo Serarile, wrote: “Look at that smile. That’s what football is about. Passion and being seen.”
Another user, Baita Adam, commented: “He will shine again.”
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s decision to include the popular supporter in the official delegation has been widely described as a remarkable gesture.
Lumumba became a viral figure during AFCON 2025 due to his emotional presence in the stands and his signature raised-hand gesture, which quickly turned him into a symbol of belief, pride and unwavering support for the Leopards.
His journey from ordinary supporter to one of African football’s most recognised superfans has resonated with many across the continent.
What makes the story even more remarkable is that the players themselves reportedly pushed for him to travel with the squad after DR Congo secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the country’s return to football’s biggest stage after decades away.
In modern football, supporters are often seen as people in the background, but Lumumba’s story is a stark reminder that sometimes fans become part of the journey itself.
