DR Congo declares April 1 public holiday to celebrate historic World Cup qualification

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has declared Wednesday, April 1, 2026, a nationwide public holiday in celebration of its national team’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In an official statement, the government described the achievement as a historic milestone for the country’s football, highlighting the significance of the Leopards’ return to the global stage.

The Ministry of Employment and Labour confirmed that the day would be observed as a paid public holiday across the entire nation.

“Following the historic qualification of the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for the 2026 World Cup, the Ministry of Employment and Labour informs the public that Wednesday, April 1, 2026, is declared a public holiday and paid day off across the entire national territory,” the statement read.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo national football team secured qualification after a dramatic victory over the Jamaica national football team in the World Cup playoff tournament.

Defender Axel Tuanzebe proved decisive, scoring the winning goal in the 100th minute of extra time after sustained pressure throughout the match.

The late strike sparked jubilant celebrations among Congolese supporters at Estadio Guadalajara, who had watched their side persistently push against Jamaica’s resistance.

This qualification marks DR Congo’s first appearance at the World Cup since 1974, when the nation then known as Zaire endured a challenging campaign, losing all three matches and finishing with a goal difference of minus 14.

The team has been drawn into Group K, where they will face the Colombia national football team, the Portugal national football team, and the Uzbekistan national football team.