Congo's Leopards Bound for World Cup Amid Ebola Concerns

The Democratic Republic of Congo's football delegation is cleared to compete in the World Cup after adhering to U.S. Ebola protocols. Despite concerns over the outbreak in DRC, the team, based mostly in Europe, complies with health guidelines, paving their way to the tournament co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The Democratic Republic of Congo's national football federation, along with FIFA, has confirmed that its World Cup delegation meets all U.S. protocols related to the Ebola outbreak. This confirmation clears the path for the team to participate in the upcoming tournament. A federation official stated preparations would proceed as planned, even with the U.S. mandate of a 21-day isolation period.

The United States is set to co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. The World Health Organization recently reported a 'very high' risk of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola spreading within the DRC, with over 1,000 suspected cases and 246 deaths reported.

Congolese authorities, after discussions with FIFA, have ensured compliance with health protocols, including canceling a Kinshasa training camp and relocating outside the country. DRC Ambassador Yvette Kapinga Ngandu praised the swift response. Most team members are Euro-based, minimizing exposure risks, and will fulfill isolation requirements in Europe. The government aims to ensure the team's safe arrival in the U.S. Discussions are ongoing over fans' visas and possibly refunding World Cup tickets. Set to play their first World Cup in 52 years, the Congolese team will be based in Houston and kick off against Portugal in Group K on June 17.