DR Congo iconic supporter Michel Kuka Mboladinga made his first appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the Leopards Group K match against Colombia after missing the opening game due to an Ebola related quarantine
Mboladinga popularly known as Lumumba Vea is famous for dressing like Patrice Lumumba and standing motionless during matches with his right arm raised as a symbolic gesture
The celebrated fan was absent during DR Congo 1 1 draw with Portugal after he was placed on a twenty one day quarantine following Ebola outbreaks in his home country according to BBC
After completing the isolation period he rejoined the Congolese delegation and was present at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara for the team second Group K fixture
Mboladinga who rose to global attention during the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has become one of African football most recognisable supporters and is widely admired for using his appearance as a message of peace
Before kickoff he posed for photographs with Congolese and Colombian fans before taking his usual silent position in the stands
His return however did not change the outcome of the match as DR Congo suffered a one nil defeat to Colombia with the winning goal coming from a deflected effort by defender Daniel Muñoz
Despite the loss his presence added colour symbolism and global attention to DR Congo World Cup campaign
