1.

THE METROPOLISWhat concrete role does your ministry play in the professionalization and stabilization of the Leopards' performance, beyond recent sporting results?

DIDIER BUDIMBU : The ministry's role is not limited to supporting the national team during competitions. Our ambition is to build a truly sustainable model of sports governance.

We are working on several fronts: improving athletes' training conditions, modernizing administrative and technical support, and implementing a coherent long-term sports policy.

We have also strengthened our collaboration with the Federation to further professionalize the organization of national teams. The Leopards' recent performances are the result of collective effort, but above all, of a clear political will to place sport back among the national priorities.

2.

How is the Congolese state currently supporting the national team's preparation in terms of infrastructure, logistics and sustainable financing?

The Congolese state has significantly increased its support for the Leopards. This is reflected in improved logistical support during international training camps and competitions, as well as progressive investments in sports infrastructure.

We know that modern football demands appropriate equipment and high-level training centers.

That is why the government is working to rehabilitate several strategic sports facilities and to seek partnerships capable of supporting sustainable funding for Congolese sport. Our goal is to gradually move away from ad hoc management to build a more stable and attractive sports economy.

Our ambition is to build a genuine model of sustainable sports governance.

3.

The Leopards' historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup is seen as a turning point: what public policies were decisive in achieving this result?

This qualification is primarily the result of a collective vision and a national commitment to football. Several decisions have contributed to this momentum: institutional stability surrounding the national team, increased support for training camps and international matches, and strengthened dialogue between sports authorities and players.

We have also emphasized the importance of discipline, administrative rigor, and adherence to international sporting calendars. Today, the Leopards operate within a more structured environment, allowing Congolese talent to fully realize its potential. This momentum must now serve as a foundation for future generations.

4.

What reforms are currently underway to ensure better coordination between the ministry, the Federation, and the technical staff of the Leopards?

We have undertaken a process of clarifying responsibilities to avoid the misunderstandings that have sometimes weakened our football in the past. The Ministry plays its role of institutional support, while the Federation retains its technical autonomy in accordance with international regulations. The objective is to establish an ongoing dialogue between all stakeholders: the Ministry, FECOFA, the technical staff, the players, and the private partners. We are also working on monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure greater continuity in sporting projects. Stability remains essential for achieving lasting results.

5.

Beyond the performance of the Leopards, how does the government intend to transform this momentum into structuring development of local football?

The Leopards' success must become a catalyst for the entire Congolese football ecosystem. We want to strengthen local leagues, support training centers, and encourage the emergence of young talent across the country.

The government is also considering a national strategy for identifying young players, in collaboration with the provinces, schools, and sports academies. We want every talented young Congolese to have access to a genuine training pathway.

Our ambition is clear: to make football a tool for national cohesion, but also a sector that creates jobs, opportunities, and international prestige for the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The government is also considering a national strategy for identifying young players, in collaboration with the provinces, schools and sports academies.

And in conclusion, Mr. Minister…

First and foremost, I would like to thank the Congolese people for their unwavering support of our Leopards. Football is now much more than a sport in the Democratic Republic of Congo: it is a symbol of unity, hope, and national pride. Our collective responsibility is to transform this popular enthusiasm into a genuine project for sustainable sports development. The government will remain committed to working alongside athletes, federations, clubs, and all Congolese youth to build a stronger, better-organized football system capable of competing sustainably on the international stage. The successes we celebrate today must become the foundation for tomorrow's victories. Together, we can write a new chapter in the history of Congolese sport.