NEW DELHI: One of DR Congo’s most famous football supporters finally makes his mark in the game fifa world cup Tuesday.Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, better known as Lumumba Vea, attended the DRC’s match against Colombia after missing the DRC’s first match against Portugal due to Ebola-related quarantine requirements.The supporter became a global sensation during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, standing completely like a statue throughout the match. Wearing a colorful suit and raising one arm in the air, he quickly caught the attention of television cameras and football fans around the world.Before the game against Colombia at Akron Stadium, Mbolinga arrived early and sat behind the DRC bench. Wearing a bright red jacket and tie, a yellow shirt and blue trousers, he once again transformed into a “living statue”, standing motionless on the pedestal with his right arm raised.Although he did not speak to reporters, he smiled when asked if he was happy to finally play in the World Cup.His path to the championship has not been easy. Earlier this year, Mbolinga also missed the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s World Cup play-off match against Jamaica after failing to obtain a visa in time. He traveled to Kenya and Ethiopia to try to obtain the necessary documents but was unable to compete.His appearance was a tribute to Patrice Lumumba, the first prime minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and one of the country’s most important historical figures.
Lumumba played a key role in ending Belgian colonial rule in 1960 and became the leader of the newly independent nation. However, less than a year later, he was assassinated amid political unrest in the Katanga region linked to the separatist movement.Mbolinga’s raised arms, formal attire and still posture were inspired by monuments and images of Lumumba, which is why he is widely known as Lumumba Weah.His unique support has made him one of the most well-known fans in international football and a symbol of the passion for the game in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.After missing the opening game against Portugal, many fans were delighted to finally see the famous ‘statue fan’ take his place in the World Cup stands.
