While fans of every team have descended on North America for this summer’s World Cup, the arrival of one in particular will be a particularly welcome sight for his nation.
The Democratic Republic of Congo are set to be joined by Michel Kuka Mboladinga, better known as Lumumba Vea, a fan who has shot to fame over the last couple of years for his unique brand of support.
Mboladinga is best known as the ‘living statue’ super-fan for his distinctive look: dressing in a jacket and tie and standing completely still in the stands of DR Congo games, with his arm raised.
While he missed the side’s 1-1 draw with Portugal in Houston – a fine battling effort as they stymied the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and his high-powered team – Mboladinga will arrive in time for their second group stage match, against Colombia in Guadalajara on Tuesday.
Mboladinga first gained prominence at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, but he has been following the national side for more than a decade and is one of their most dedicated fans.
Nicknamed “Lumumba Vea”, which means “Lumumba lives”, Mboladinga’s distinctive look is in tribute to his country’s first Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba.
He stands throughout the duration of DR Congo matches in honour of the late Lumumba, who was assassinated by firing squad in 1961.
The former prime minister is widely seen as a national hero.
Mboladinga’s stance is similar to that of a Lumumba statue in Kinshasa, the capital and largest city of DR Congo. His silent tribute is a stark contrast to the vibrant singing and cheering fans around him.
His distinctive presence previously led to an apology from the Algerian football federation at the Cup of Nations, after forward Mohamed Amoura mocked him following Algeria’s victory over DR Congo, sparking a social media backlash.
Mboladinga’s journey to the World Cup was delayed due to travel restrictions imposed on visitors from the DR Congo.
These measures were enacted following an Ebola outbreak in the country, which has now infected over 1,000 people and claimed 254 lives.
Congo have already caused one shock at this year’s tournament, earning a point from their clash with Portugal last week. The African nation fell behind early to a Joao Neves header, but equalised on the stroke of half time through Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa, and managed to keep Portugal at bay for the rest of the match.
Another positive result against Colombia would move them a step closer to earning a spot in the World Cup knockout rounds.
Following Tuesday’s clash with Colombia, Congo are due to face Uzbekistan in their final group game on Saturday evening.
