The Democratic Republic of Congo has been forced to cancel a pre-World Cup training camp in the capital Kinshasa due to rising Ebola fears in the country. The central African nation is set to make an historic appearance at the tournament this summer, their first since 1974.
Preparations Underway Despite Outbreak
Preparations for the World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, are already underway. Coach Sébastien Desabre has named his 26-man squad ahead of the tournament. However, the pre-tournament build-up has been impacted by a growing Ebola outbreak in DR Congo. The World Health Organisation has called the outbreak a "public health emergency of international concern" but noted it is not at pandemic level.
Training Camp Relocated
DR Congo had planned a three-stage preparation: a camp in Kinshasa to meet fans, followed by matches in Belgium and Spain, and a final stage in Houston, USA. The Kinshasa stage has been cancelled, but spokesperson Jerry Kalemo confirmed the friendly matches against Denmark and Chile will still take place, with the camp moved to Belgium instead.
FIFA has stated it is "aware of and monitoring the situation regarding an Ebola outbreak and is in close communication with the DRC Football Association to ensure that the team are made aware of all medical and security guidance."
US Travel Restrictions
The US government has banned non-Americans who have been in DR Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan in the previous 21 days from entering the country. However, none of the players or coach Desabre are based in DR Congo, so they will not be affected by the restrictions following the camp cancellation.
Ebola Outbreak Details
The WHO reports 139 suspected deaths out of 600 cases, with the eastern Ituri province as the epicentre. The outbreak is caused by a rare Ebola species known as Bundibugyo, for which there is currently no vaccine.
World Cup Group
DR Congo have been drawn into Group K, where they will face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. Their tournament opens against Portugal.
