DR Congo superfan 'living statue' makes mark at World Cup

One of the most recognisable spectators at the 2026 World Cup is Michel Kuka Mboladinga, better known as Lumumba Vea or the 'living statue'. The DR Congo superfan has gained international fame for his ability to remain completely still for the entire duration of a match, with one arm raised, dressed in a suit that often mirrors the colours of the DR Congo flag.

Mboladinga was unable to attend DR Congo's opening World Cup match due to a mandatory quarantine related to the Ebola outbreak in the country. However, he has been pictured in Mexico in good spirits ahead of the team's second group-stage fixture against Colombia, which kicks off on Wednesday morning (03:00 BST).

The 'Living Statue': Origins and Significance

Mboladinga's signature pose recreates that of the Lumumba statue in Kinshasa, the capital of DR Congo. The statue honours Patrice Lumumba, the first prime minister of the First Congolese Republic in 1960, which is also the origin of Mboladinga's nickname 'Lumumba Vea'. He has been attending matches in this manner since 2013, but became widely known during the Africa Cup of Nations in December 2025 and January 2026.

• Imitates a statue for the full duration of a match, with one arm raised
• Wears a jacket, shirt, tie and suit trousers, often in DR Congo flag colours
• Known as 'Lumumba Vea' or the 'living statue'
• Has been performing the routine since 2013
• Rose to global fame during the 2025-2026 Africa Cup of Nations

With DR Congo aiming to progress from the group stage, all eyes will be on both the team and their unique superfan, who continues to capture the imagination of fans worldwide.