The Democratic Republic of Congo has cancelled its planned World Cup training camp and farewell event in Kinshasa because of the ongoing Ebola outbreak affecting parts of the country.
The Congolese Football Federation confirmed that the three-day camp and fan send-off in the capital will no longer take place as health authorities continue to battle the deadly virus.
Reports indicate that more than 130 people have died, while nearly 600 suspected cases have been recorded in DR Congo and neighbouring Uganda.
The World Health Organization has already described the situation as a major public health concern.
Most members of the DR Congo national team, including French coach Sébastien Desabre, are based outside Africa, with many of the players featuring for clubs in France and other European countries.
The team had initially planned to gather in Kinshasa before moving to Europe for friendly matches ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, officials decided to cancel the local camp because of growing concerns over health and travel restrictions linked to the Ebola outbreak.
The team will now continue its preparations in Europe, where it is expected to play warm-up matches against Denmark in Belgium on June 3 and Chile in Spain on June 9.
The Leopards are also scheduled to travel to Houston, Texas, on June 11 for the final stage of their preparations before the tournament begins.
Reports suggest that temporary travel restrictions connected to the Ebola outbreak have forced Congolese officials to adjust some travel plans for staff members based in the country.
DR Congo qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1974, marking a historic achievement for the nation.
The team has been drawn in a difficult group alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.
