Cédric Bakambu has released an emotional statement after the DR Congo qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 1–0 victory over Jamaica in the FIFA Intercontinental Playoffs final.

The result marks DR Congo’s historic return to the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.

Bakambu expressed pride and gratitude while dedicating the achievement to the Congolese people and those affected by ongoing hardship:

“Dear Congolese brothers and sisters, I am filled with gratitude and pride to announce to you that we have qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with our national team. This dream, I share it with all of you. Together, let us make the voice of Congo heard on the world stage.

However, I do not forget the pain and suffering endured in the east of our country, ravaged by wars and conflicts for far too many years. Every effort we make on the field, every moment of sacrifice, is also for them. We carry their hopes with us, and every step toward the World Cup is a step toward hope for all the Congolese people.

May this qualification not be the end of a mere sporting adventure, but the beginning of a new era. It is an opportunity for us all to come together, to invest, to modernize our sports infrastructure, to support our youth, and to make sports shine in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The future begins today.”

DR Congo’s qualification marks a historic milestone for the nation, ending a 52-year absence from football’s biggest tournament.