The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has declared Wednesday, April 1, 2026, a nationwide public holiday to celebrate the national football team’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In an official statement, authorities described the achievement as a “historic qualification” for the Leopards, highlighting its significance for football in the country. The Ministry of Employment and Labour confirmed the day would be observed as a paid holiday nationwide.
“Following the historic qualification of the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for the 2026 World Cup, Wednesday, April 1, 2026, is declared a public holiday and paid day off across the entire national territory,” the statement said.
DR Congo secured their place at the tournament after a dramatic playoff victory over Jamaica, with defender Axel Tuanzebe scoring a decisive late winner in the 100th minute.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among Congolese fans at the Estadio Guadalajara, who had anxiously watched as their side sought a breakthrough.
This marks DR Congo’s first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the country—then known as Zaire—lost all three group matches. The Leopards have been drawn into a challenging Group K, where they will face Colombia, Portugal, and Uzbekistan.
Elsewhere, Iraq also qualified for the 2026 World Cup after defeating Bolivia 2-1 in a playoff, marking their first appearance since 1986.
The Leopards’ triumph has triggered jubilant celebrations across DR Congo, with citizens hailing the qualification as a major boost to national pride and the country’s global football ambitions.
