Rabat Morocco January 10 2026 — The legendary Congolese football supporter Lumumba VEA the man who became the human embodiment of Patrice Lumumba during DR Congo’s run at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations has been officially permitted to remain in Morocco until the end of the tournament
Moroccan authorities and tournament organisers have approved his extended stay allowing the viral sensation to continue attending matches as DR Congo’s number one fan In addition he will receive a stipend of €2,000 approximately ₦3.3 million for each game he attends from the quarter-finals onward
The decision follows Lumumba’s unforgettable performance throughout the group stage and knockout rounds where he stood motionless for hours on end arm raised in salute dressed in full suit and tie paying tribute to the assassinated Congolese independence hero His stoic emotional display captured global attention turning him into one of the defining images of AFCON 2025
Even after DR Congo’s elimination in the Round of 16 against Algeria Lumumba’s story continued to inspire leading to this unprecedented recognition
The Moroccan Football Federation CAF representatives and local sponsors are behind the gesture seeing it as a way to celebrate the spirit of African football and the power of fandom
Lumumba’s journey from humble supporter to tournament icon has become a powerful symbol standing still can move the world.
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