DR Congo Plans World Cup Push as Tshisekedi Heads to Houston

President Félix Tshisekedi is expected to travel to Houston, Texas, to support the Democratic Republic of Congo during its opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Portugal on June 17, according to Sports Minister Didier Budimbu. The visit underscores growing national support for the Leopards as they prepare for their first World Cup appearance in more than five decades as cited by local media.

Budimbu announced the president's planned attendance during an exchange on social media platform X, stating that Tshisekedi would travel with an official delegation.

The minister said members of the delegation underwent health screening in Kinshasa before departure amid heightened international vigilance linked to the Ebola outbreak affecting eastern DR Congo.

The government's support comes as excitement builds around the Leopards' return to football's biggest stage. DR Congo qualified for the World Cup for the first time since the 1974 tournament, when the country, then known as Zaire, made its only previous appearance.

Reuters reported that supporters in Houston have created a vibrant atmosphere around the team, with fans expressing confidence that the Leopards can compete strongly against Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan in Group K.

Budimbu also announced plans to strengthen support from the Congolese diaspora. According to the minister, 1,150 tickets will be made available to Congolese supporters for each of DR Congo's World Cup matches. The initiative aims to ensure a visible Congolese presence in stadiums throughout the tournament.

However, the minister acknowledged that travel restrictions remain a challenge. Speaking during a discussion hosted by ACTUALITE.CD, he said supporters, entertainers, and some organizers have faced difficulties obtaining U.S. and Canadian visas, with Ebola-related concerns complicating approval processes.

Despite those obstacles, optimism remains high around the national team. The Leopards have been welcomed by Houston's sizable Congolese community and arrive at the tournament carrying the hopes of a nation eager to make history after a 52-year absence from the World Cup.

The match against Portugal will be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the group stage, with global attention focused on whether DR Congo can begin its long-awaited World Cup return with a strong performance against one of Europe's football powers.