Full Breakdown
DR Congo's World Cup Warm-up Shifted Amid Ebola Concerns
6/8/2026, 2:05:39 PM
Final Warm-up Match Relocated Behind Closed Doors
The Democratic Republic of Congo's (DR Congo) preparatory match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, originally set for Cadiz, Spain, was moved to the French city of Orléans and will be played without spectators. The change follows a decision by Cadiz's mayor to cancel the fixture due to Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo. The match against Chile is scheduled for 9 June.
Ebola Outbreak in Eastern DR Congo: Health Context
Since early 2026, eastern DR Congo has experienced an outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a rare variant for which no vaccine exists. World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that a vaccine could require up to nine months to become available. As of early June, the Ministry of Health reported 488 confirmed cases and 86 deaths. The health situation prompted travel advisories and influenced the relocation of the warm-up match.
Preparation Timeline and Travel Plans
The squad completed a 10-day training camp in Belgium, concluding with a 0-0 friendly against Denmark on 3 June. Following the camp, the team moved to Marbella, Spain, for preparations. On 11 June, the side will travel to its World Cup base in Houston, United States, where it will remain for the tournament. The group-stage schedule places DR Congo against Portugal in Houston on 17 June, Colombia in Guadalajara on 23 June, and Uzbekistan in Atlanta on 27 June.
Team Composition and Training Details
DR Congo's 26-player roster consists of professionals employed by clubs outside the country, predominantly in Europe. A small number of officials and support staff have traveled from Democratic Republic of Congo to join the camp. All personnel have complied with the requirement set by United States authorities to have been outside the DRC for at least 21 days and symptom-free before entering the United States.
Official Statements & Responses
A team spokesperson confirmed the relocation of the Chile friendly and the closed-door format, emphasizing compliance with health protocols. United States officials reiterated the 21-day, symptom-free condition for entry, citing public-health safeguards. The mayor of Cadiz cited Ebola concerns as the basis for canceling the original match venue.
Data & Statistics
- 26-player squad, none based in DR Congo.
- 10-day Belgium training camp, ending 3 June with a 0-0 draw versus Denmark.
- 488 confirmed Ebola cases, 86 deaths (as of 6-9 June).
- 21-day, symptom-free requirement for U.S. entry.
- Group K: Portugal (17 June, Houston), Colombia (23 June, Guadalajara), Uzbekistan (27 June, Atlanta).
What's Next: World Cup Campaign
With the warm-up match set for Orléans, DR Congo will complete preparations before joining Group K in the United States. The team aims to improve on its 1974 appearance, when it competed as Zaire and finished bottom of its group. The upcoming matches will test the squad’s cohesion amid ongoing health concerns in its home nation.
