DR Congo appeals to FIFA for World Cup ticket refunds amid Ebola travel restrictions
DR Congo have asked FIFA to refund the cost of 2026 World Cup tickets bought by fans who are now unable to enter the United States because of Ebola-related travel restrictions. Veron Mosengo-Omba, the president of DR Congo's football federation (Fecofa), said, "We asked FIFA if it is possible to take this into consideration, because the tickets are a little bit expensive. They are punished because they cannot get [into the US] to see the World Cup to support their team. We don't want our supporters who love football, who love the World Cup, to lose everything."
The US embassy in the capital city of Kinshasa has suspended visa services. The US has barred entry from non-Americans who have been in the DR Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan in the previous 21 days. Officials state that there have been more than 900 suspected cases of Ebola in central and East Africa, and 223 suspected deaths, since the outbreak was declared on May 16. The Leopards are returning to football's biggest stage for the first time since 1974. The Leopards face Portugal in their Group K opener on June 17.
In response to Fecofa's request, FIFA noted it "will look into it in due course." FIFA told the BBC it is in "close communication" with Fecofa, World Cup host governments, and relevant health agencies to ensure medical and security compliance. The Leopards did have to cancel a pre-tournament training camp in Kinshasa and are assembling in Belgium for friendlies before heading to their base in Texas.
Quick Summary
DR Congo's return to the World Cup after 52 years faces a hurdle - Ebola-related travel restrictions. Fans are now unable to attend, prompting officials to seek refunds for their tickets.
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