Iconic World Cup super fan denied a visa to the US as team reaches knockout stages

1 Jul 2026 • 7:37 AM MYT
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Image from: Iconic World Cup super fan denied a visa to the US as team reaches knockout stages
Photo by Abu Adem Muhammed/Anadolu via Getty Images

An iconic World Cup super fan will once again be unable to attend his side’s game after he was denied a visa for the knockout stages.

Michel Kuka Mboladinga, who has become famous worldwide for standing like a statue for 90 minutes during DR Congo’s games, was expected to be there to support his nation this summer.

However, visa issues have meant that he has only been able to attend their group stage fixture against Colombia so far.

For those hoping he would be at England vs DR Congo, that is sadly not going to happen.

Image from: Iconic World Cup super fan denied a visa to the US as team reaches knockout stages
Photo by Abu Adem Muhammed/Anadolu via Getty Images

DR Congo super fan denied visa for England fan

Lumumba Vea, who poses as the first prime minister of DR Congo to commemorate his life, is a fan favourite across the globe.

While he may not be present for the game in Atlanta, DR Congo have taken measures to ensure his legacy will remain.

According to The Telegraph, his place will be taken by a younger fan who will stand in the same pose.

After missing two of the three games, Congolese ambassador to Washington Kapinga Yvette Ngandu, hoped that he would be able to attend the knockout games. She said: “I hope he brings his own brand of support to the team.”

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