FIFA finds paperwork problems for DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi but leaves team in 2026 World Cup AI
Tribuna reports that FIFA legal advisers discovered problems with documents belonging to DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Despite the irregularity—Mpasi reportedly lacked required paperwork related to a change in his status—FIFA did not remove DR Congo from the tournament. Kyiv readers who follow international football should note the finding affects player eligibility rules but does not alter DR Congo’s place in the 2026 World Cup.
On October 6, 2026, Tribuna reported that FIFA’s legal representatives identified problems with the documents of DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi during checks carried out before the 2026 World Cup. According to the report, Mpasi did not have required paperwork connected to a change in his status.
The same report says FIFA has not disqualified or otherwise removed the DR Congo national team from the 2026 World Cup despite the paperwork issue. The case concerns player eligibility and administrative compliance; Tribuna attributes the discovery to FIFA’s pre-tournament legal review. Readers should watch for any formal FIFA statements or appeals that could clarify whether sanctions or further action will follow.