The Democratic Republic of Congo government has promised each member of the national football team a $1 million bonus if they qualify for the intercontinental play-offs of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Leopards are among the four teams competing in the African play-offs taking place in Morocco this November. They will face Cameroon in the semi-final on Thursday, November 13, with the winner set to play either Nigeria or Gabon for a spot in the intercontinental play-offs.
According to reports, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi personally approved the special incentive to motivate the players. The report states that arrangements have already been made for Rawbank to transfer the funds directly to each player if qualification is confirmed by November 16 — the date of the African playoff final.
“The directive of President Félix Tshisekedi authorised a $1m reward for every player should the Leopards advance,” the report said, noting that the offer applies exclusively to the players, with head coach Sébastien Desabre and his technical crew excluded from the package.
Government sources say the move is designed to boost morale as DR Congo aim to return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974.
While most African nations are engaged in friendly matches this month, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and DR Congo are focused on securing Africa’s final ticket to the expanded 48-team World Cup to be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States in 2026.
The African playoffs, organised by CAF, feature two single-leg semi-finals and a final, with all matches scheduled to hold in Morocco between November 13 and 16. The eventual winner will represent Africa in the intercontinental play-offs in March 2026, where the last World Cup slots will be decided.
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