DR Congo Superfan Rejects Massive Offer to Cash in On Viral Patrice Lumumba Tribute at AFCON 2025

For many fans, an opportunity to cash in on a viral moment cannot be let go, but for DR Congo superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, that is not the case.

Mboladinga has become an internet sensation following his motionless tribute to DR Congo’s independence hero Patrice Lumumba during his country’s matches at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Standing motionless like a statue throughout the games, Mboladinga paid tribute to Lumumba in the best way he knew how, showing a powerful form of support, a true symbol of pride and loyalty.

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It earned him admiration across the world as he did not show emotions or even join in celebrations as his team made their way to the Round of 16 until when they conceded a late goal in extra-time against Algeria, which knocked DR Congo out of AFCON 2025.

At that moment, he could not hide his disappointment as he wiped off tears when it became clear that the Leopards’ stay in Morocco had come to an end.

That also meant his motionless tribute had come to an end but while the team was preparing to pack their bags, Mboladinga received an offer that would make him stay in Morocco for the rest of the tournament.

According to Africa Soccer, the superfan received an offer to stay on and continue lighting up the stands until the end of AFCON 2025 with unconfirmed reports saying he would have been paid $2,000 (Ksh258,000) per match.

Surprisingly, Mboladinga rejected the offer, opting to also pack his bags and return home with the team and the rest of the fans who had come to follow the team.

Following Algeria’s win, Mboladinga was invited to the Desert Foxes’ team hotel as they honoured him for his dedication and that would be among his last acts in Morocco before he checked in to Rabat International Airport to begin the journey back home.