An Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo has recorded around 600 suspected cases and more than 130 deaths, prompting the WHO to declare a public health emergency of international concern. The situation has already disrupted DR Congo's World Cup preparations, with the team relocating from Kinshasa to Belgium and US authorities barring entry to recent travellers from DR Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan.

"If you are a casual visitor to the World Cup from around the world, I think there is a very low risk that you would be at risk of Ebola," Dr Oliver Johnson of King's College London told Reuters, noting the virus requires direct contact and is subject to rapid contact tracing. He warned however that airport screening would add logistical strain and potential last-minute disruption.

FIFA told BHRRC on 11 June 2026 that it is aware of and closely monitoring the situation, including any policy or travel-related measures introduced by host countries. FIFA continues to work with all three FWC 2026 host countries' governments, including the US Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Homeland Security, Mexico's Secretariat of Health and the Public Health Agency of Canada, as well as with the WHO, to ensure a safe and secure tournament, as the health of all individuals involved remains FIFA's priority. FIFA is also in close communication with the DR Congo Football Association to ensure the team are made aware of all medical and security guidance. Moreover, FIFA has informed ticket holders residing in DR Congo, South Sudan and Uganda of important travel considerations, noting that all ticket holders are responsible for complying with applicable entry requirements, local laws and public health measures, and that tickets may be listed for resale or transferred to another eligible individual where entry requirements cannot be met.