Famous 'statue' fan arrives at World Cup to support DR Congo
Michel Kuka Mboladinga, known as the 'statue' fan of the Congolese national team, has arrived in Guadalajara to support the team against Colombia.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has received a special boost ahead of their second group stage match at the World Cup. Michel Kuka Mboladinga, famously known as the team's "statue" fan, has landed in Guadalajara, Mexico, to support the squad in their upcoming duel against Colombia.
Mboladinga missed DR Congo's tournament opener, a historic 1-1 draw against Portugal. His absence was caused by travel restrictions related to the Ebola epidemic in his home country. Having now resolved his situation and secured the necessary authorization, he has joined the official delegation for the remainder of the competition.
The fan gained notoriety for his unique way of supporting the team: he remains perfectly motionless during the entire 90 minutes of play, standing with one arm extended. This pose is a tribute to Patrice Lumumba, the Congolese national hero and first prime minister, reflecting the statue of Lumumba located in the capital, Kinshasa. Dressed in a suit matching the colors of the Congolese flag, Mboladinga symbolizes the country's struggle for independence.
His fame grew beyond national borders during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he drew significant attention by standing completely still in the stands throughout every match played by the Congolese team.