2026 World Cup: Fears over disruption as FIFA, health officials track Ebola situation ahead of June start date

World football governing body FIFA says it is closely monitoring the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo ahead of the country’s 2026 World Cup campaign.

The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus, has sparked fears over whether DR Congo will be able to participate fully in the tournament preparations scheduled to begin next month.

FIFA said in a statement to Brazilian media outlet UOL Esporte that it was “aware of and monitoring the situation” surrounding the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and remained in close contact with the country’s football authorities.

Reports indicate that the Congolese national team has already cancelled a planned three-day training camp and fan farewell event in Kinshasa due to growing health concerns.

However, the squad is expected to continue preparations abroad, with warm-up matches lined up in Belgium and Spain before traveling to the United States.

FIFA said it is “aware of and monitoring the situation” in coordination with health authorities and the Congolese Football Association as concerns grow over travel restrictions and player safety.

The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern after hundreds of suspected cases and more than 100 deaths were reported in DR Congo and neighboring Uganda.

United States authorities have also introduced enhanced travel screening and temporary entry restrictions for travelers coming from affected countries, although exemptions are expected for participating teams and officials linked to the World Cup.