DR Congo Cleared for World Cup After Meeting US Ebola Protocols
The Democratic Republic of Congo's national football team has been cleared to compete in the upcoming World Cup after confirming full compliance with strict U.S. Ebola health protocols, officials announced Thursday, 28.
The breakthrough follows urgent talks this week between FIFA and the Congolese football federation (FECOFA).
The entry clearance ensures the team can travel to the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, despite rigorous U.S. quarantine rules.
The United States recently enforced a mandatory 21-day isolation period for travelers arriving from the DRC.
The restrictions follow a warning from the World Health Organization last week of a "very high" risk that the deadly Bundibugyo strain of Ebola could spread nationally. The DRC has recorded more than 1,000 suspected cases and 246 suspected deaths to date.
To satisfy U.S. health authorities, Congolese officials canceled a planned training camp in the capital of Kinshasa and moved their entire preparation operation abroad.
Most players on the squad live and play for clubs in Europe, which significantly limits their direct exposure to the outbreak.
Furthermore, team staff members who departed Kinshasa earlier this month will complete a mandatory 21-day stay in Europe before flying to the United States.
"I applaud FECOFA and FIFA for moving swiftly and decisively to make this responsible, reasonable determination," DRC Ambassador to the United States Yvette Kapinga Ngandu said in a statement on Wednesday.
"The Leopards are ready, they are safe, and I have no doubt that the United States will embrace this team," she added.
The Congolese government talking to Reuters, mphasized that it took every necessary precaution to protect both the players and the host nation.
"The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has done everything in its power to ensure they arrive in the United States prepared, protected, and ready to compete," Sports Minister Didier Budimbu said.
While the team has secured its passage, Congolese fans face major setbacks.
Government officials raised concerns that many supporters who purchased match tickets have been denied U.S. visas due to administrative restrictions. Authorities confirmed that talks are currently underway with FIFA to secure ticket refunds for affected fans.
The Congolese team is making its first World Cup appearance in 52 years. The squad will be based in Houston during the tournament.
The Leopards are scheduled to open their Group K campaign against Portugal on June 17. They will then travel to Mexico to face Colombia in Guadalajara on June 23, before returning to the U.S. to play Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 27.
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