House Resolution 56EX
By: Representatives Adeyina of the 110th, Stephens of the 164th, Olaleye of the 59th,
Cummings of the 39th, Beckles of the 96th, and others
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and honoring the Democratic Republic of the Congo National Football Team
for qualifying for and competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, the people of the State of Georgia join football supporters throughout the world
in celebrating the remarkable achievement of the Democratic Republic of the Congo National
Football Team, known as Les Léopards (The Leopards), in qualifying for and competing in
the 2026 FIFA World Cup; and
WHEREAS, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has a proud football heritage and has
long been recognized as one of Africa's historic football powers, producing generations of
talented athletes who have excelled at the highest levels of international competition; and
WHEREAS, the qualification of the Democratic Republic of the Congo National Football
Team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup represents a significant milestone for the nation and
reflects the dedication, perseverance, and determination of its players, coaches, and
supporters; and
H. R. 56EX
WHEREAS, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has achieved notable success in African
football, including victories in the Africa Cup of Nations and numerous accomplishments
that have inspired athletes throughout Africa and the global Congolese diaspora; and
WHEREAS, the Democratic Republic of the Congo National Football Team has
demonstrated resilience, discipline, teamwork, and excellence in earning the honor of
representing its nation on the world's greatest sporting stage; and
WHEREAS, under the leadership of its coaching staff and football federation officials, the
team has continued to build upon its rich football tradition while showcasing the talent, pride,
and competitive spirit of the Congolese people; and
WHEREAS, the State of Georgia values the growing friendship and cooperation between the
United States and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, relationships strengthened through
trade, education, cultural exchange, entrepreneurship, faith-based partnerships, and
community engagement; and Georgia is honored to serve as a host site for the 2026 FIFA
World Cup, including the Group K match between the Democratic Republic of the Congo
National Football Team and the Uzbekistan National Football Team to be played at the
Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. EDT;
and
WHEREAS, Georgia is home to members of the Congolese community whose contributions
in business, healthcare, education, public service, faith organizations, and civic leadership
enrich the cultural and economic vitality of communities throughout the state; and
WHEREAS, the Democratic Republic of the Congo's participation in the 2026 FIFA World
Cup, including its appearance in Atlanta against Uzbekistan at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on
H. R. 56EX
June 27, 2026, serves as a source of immense pride and inspiration for Congolese citizens
and Congolese-Americans residing in Georgia and throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS, the members of the Democratic Republic of the Congo National Football Team
have demonstrated exceptional athletic ability, dedication, professionalism, and commitment
in earning the opportunity to compete among the world's elite football nations; and
WHEREAS, the coaches, technical staff, medical personnel, and support team have provided
exemplary leadership and guidance in preparing the team for competition at the highest level
of international football; and
WHEREAS, these athletes and team representatives serve as ambassadors for the Democratic
Republic of the Congo and exemplify the values of excellence, perseverance, teamwork, and
national pride.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body recognize and honor the Democratic Republic of the Congo
National Football Team, its coaches, technical staff, and players for qualifying for and
competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and extend best wishes for continued success.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the
Democratic Republic of the Congo National Football Team.
H. R. 56EX