By Edwin Mbewe
KINSHASA-(MaraviPost)-The Democratic Republic of Congo could face expulsion from the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup if the team fails to comply with strict health protocols ahead of travelling to the United States, according to reports from The Sun Football.
The African nation is scheduled to arrive in Houston, Texas, on June 11 ahead of their opening Group Stage match against Portugal on June 17.
However, due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in parts of Congo, tournament organisers and US authorities have reportedly instructed the team to undergo a mandatory 21-day isolation period before entering the country.
The isolation bubble was expected to begin on Thursday and must remain intact until the squad lands in the United States.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the World Cup, warned that any breach of the protocols could jeopardise DR Congo’s participation in the tournament.
“We’ve been very clear to Congo that they should maintain the integrity of their bubble for 21 days before they can then come to Houston on June 11th,” Giuliani said.
“We’ve made it very clear to the Congo government as well, that they need to maintain that bubble or they risk not being able to travel to the United States. We cannot be any clearer.”
DR Congo’s squad for this summer’s tournament is expected to feature several high-profile players currently playing in English football, including Manchester United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki, and Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa.
The global showpiece will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States of America.
The situation is likely to be closely monitored in the coming weeks as preparations continue ahead of the World Cup.