DR Congo's 'Statue Fan' Michel Mboladinga in Quarantine During World Cup

FIFA World Cup: Meet Michel Mboladinga, the DR Congo Fan Who Stands Like a Statue for 90 Minutes

NEW DELHI: Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, popularly known as Lumumba Vea, has gained global fame for his unique way of supporting the DR Congo national football team. However, the iconic fan was absent from the stands when DR Congo held Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal to a surprising 1-1 draw in their opening FIFA World Cup match on Wednesday. Mboladinga is currently undergoing a 21-day quarantine due to an Ebola outbreak.

Mboladinga became a viral sensation during the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, where television cameras frequently captured him standing perfectly still throughout matches, sometimes for 90 or even 120 minutes. His distinctive pose and sharp attire earned him the nickname "the statue fan" on social media. This unique display is a tribute to Patrice Lumumba, DR Congo's first Prime Minister and a key figure in the nation's history.

His raised arm mimics the famous Lumumba monument in Kinshasa, while his vintage glasses, tailored suit, and rigid posture are carefully chosen to honour the independence leader. Fans of DR Congo football will be pleased to know that Mboladinga is expected to complete his quarantine in time to attend the team's next World Cup match against Colombia on June 23.

On the pitch, DR Congo achieved a historic milestone by earning their first-ever World Cup point, drawing 1-1 against Portugal in front of a crowd of 68,777 at NRG Stadium, Houston. This result marked a significant achievement for the African nation, which is participating in its first World Cup in 52 years. DR Congo's performance followed another impressive showing by Cape Verde, who held Spain to a goalless draw earlier in the week.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez acknowledged his team's lacklustre display, saying, "At times the performance is not up to the challenge. The World Cup is a tournament where this happens." Despite the Portuguese dominance in fan support at the stadium, DR Congo managed to leave a lasting impression. Many supporters are now eagerly awaiting the return of Mboladinga, whose presence in the stands has become synonymous with DR Congo football culture.