2026 World Cup Preparations: DRC Team’s Entry Amid Ebola Concerns, Fan Zones, and Player Updates

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national football team was permitted to enter the United States despite Ebola-related concerns, according to a player confirmed to AFP. The squad, subject to a 21-day quarantine upon arrival, landed in Houston on June 11, 2026, after departing from Paris, as reported by RMC Sport.

DRC Team’s Entry Amid Ebola Concerns

The DRC’s Léopards faced heightened scrutiny due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the country. However, U.S. authorities allowed the team to enter the country to participate in the 2026 World Cup, according to Aron Wan-Bissaka, a DRC player. The team underwent a 21-day isolation period before joining the tournament, as confirmed by AFP sources.

Health officials from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the quarantine measures aligned with standard protocols for teams traveling from regions with active disease outbreaks. “The CDC works closely with FIFA and host nations to ensure public health safety while allowing participation in global events,” a spokesperson said.

Fan Zones and Public Sentiment

Los Angeles’ fan zones, including the Adidas-sponsored area at BMO Stadium and the FIFA Fan Festival at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, saw significant attendance ahead of the tournament’s opening match. The event drew large crowds, particularly from the Mexican community, which has a strong presence in the city, according to RMC Sport.

Meanwhile, in Mexico City, protests disrupted plans for the Zócalo fan zone. Demonstrators, led by the CNTE teachers’ union, criticized the government for prioritizing the World Cup over addressing social issues. “They kill our people and you celebrate,” one protester shouted, as reported by RMC Sport.

Player Updates and Squad Changes

Several teams announced last-minute changes ahead of the tournament. Argentina’s Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out due to a training injury, with Marcos Senesi replacing him. Similarly, Japan’s Wataru Endo withdrew, though the team had until June 14 to name a replacement, according to RMC Sport.

The French team finalized agreements with players regarding bonuses and family accommodations, with no payments tied to group-stage exits. Meanwhile, Spain’s Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams showed signs of recovery, potentially featuring in the opening match against Cape Verde, as reported by Spanish media.

Environmental Concerns and New Rules

The 2026 World Cup has faced criticism for its environmental impact, with a carbon accounting platform labeling it the “most polluting tournament in history” due to travel emissions. FIFA has not yet responded to the claims, but the organization has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint in future events.

New rules for the tournament include expanded use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. The changes, outlined by FIFA, aim to improve decision-making accuracy, though they have sparked debate among fans and officials alike.

Local Measures and Security

France implemented a curfew for minors in Toulouse during the World Cup, restricting unaccompanied youth from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. The measure, announced by the city’s mayor, aimed to prevent overcrowding near fan zones. Similar security measures were deployed in Mexico, including 2,000 “Cinturon de Paz” volunteers to manage crowds near the Azteca Stadium.

Despite the challenges, the tournament’s opening match between Mexico and South Africa on June 11, 2026, was marked by a vibrant atmosphere, with fans celebrating the first day of the competition. “The energy here is incredible,” said a supporter at the Los Angeles fan zone, as reported by RMC Sport.