DR Congo’s famous “living statue” supporter Michel Nkuka Mboladinga made his first FIFA World Cup appearance during his team’s match against Colombia after missing the opening game because of Ebola-related quarantine rules.

Mboladinga, also known as “Lumumba Vea” or “Statue Man,” has gained international attention for standing motionless throughout matches with his right arm raised in tribute to Patrice Lumumba, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s first prime minister and independence leader.

The Congolese supporter became widely known during the Africa Cup of Nations, where his still pose in the stands drew global attention. His stance mirrors the Lumumba memorial statue in Kinshasa and has become a symbolic display of national pride.

Mboladinga missed DR Congo’s opening World Cup match against Portugal due to quarantine requirements linked to Ebola health precautions. He later joined supporters for DR Congo’s Group K match against Colombia in Guadalajara.

During the match, he stood behind the DR Congo bench on a small platform, raising his right arm and remaining still in his trademark pose.

DR Congo lost the match 1-0 to Colombia, but Mboladinga’s presence became one of the most discussed images from the game.

His appearance added another memorable visual moment to the World Cup, highlighting how football supporters often bring history, culture and identity into global tournaments.

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