“Lumumba,” Star of the Stands, receives special Honor

AFCON 2025 sensation in the stands, Congolese superfan Michel “Lumumba” has received a Jeep from the DR Congo government as a gesture of appreciation.

A nice gift for the star of the stands. Although the Democratic Republic of Congo was eliminated by Algeria (1-0, a.e.t.) in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, one of the Leopard’s fans was honored by his country’s Minister of Sports.

Nicknamed “Lumumba,” artist Michel Kuka was given a car a Jeep as a token of appreciation, according to several local journalists.

Michel Kuka caused a sensation during this competition in Morocco, standing motionless in the stands during the Leopard’s matches.

Also known for his resemblance to Patrice Emery Lumumba, one of the fathers of Congolese independence, this fan has become one of the symbols of this 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

“I can’t even leave my room when I’m at the hotel because there’s such a buzz outside,” he said on the sidelines of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s round of 16 match against Les Fennecs. “It’s beyond me. I can’t even walk. Everyone asks me for photos, interviews, videos. Sometimes it makes me feel good, it’s a source of pride for me.”

“It’s a message, it also gives an image of our country, everywhere I go in Morocco. It’s the pride of our country, it’s Congo that wins.”

In tears after the Leopard’s defeat in extra time against Algeria, Michel Kuka was teased by striker Mohammed Amoura, among others, but ultimately received a nice gesture from the Algerian Federation.