Congolese Fan Michel Mboladinga Becomes Living Statue at World Cup Match

At the World Cup 2026 match between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia in Zapopan, Mexico, 49‑year‑old fan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, known as “Lumumba Vea”, stood on a podium completely motionless with his right arm raised, recreating the pose of a famous Patrice Lumumba statue in Kinshasa. His attire reflected the Congo flag and his silent pose attracted worldwide attention.

Mboladinga said, “I stand motionless because I believe it gives the team emotional endurance,” and added that Lumumba “gave us freedom and sacrificed his life for us.” After missing Congo’s first game due to Ebola‑related quarantine, he was officially added to the national team’s delegation, with travel costs and visa assistance covered by the Congolese federation.