Brian Cipenga delay after DR Congo party hits Castellón as Tshisekedi vows to cover fines | OneFootball

DR Congo’s historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup triggered Kinshasa celebrations that delayed players’ returns, leaving CD Castellón without Brian Cipenga for four matches at a key stage.

Afrik-Foot reports that Sébastien Desabre said the Kinshasa trip was not scheduled and followed a presidential invitation. He added that national staff spoke with clubs to justify the delay and that most understood, though some cases have reached FIFA and sanctions could follow.

For Castellón the friction stems from losing Cipenga not only to international duty but also to an unscripted official celebration that was outside the initial plan.

President Félix Tshisekedi has moved to defuse the row, saying any financial penalties arising from the episode will be covered by FECOFA and, ultimately, by the state so they do not fall on the players.

The extended stop in the capital pushed back several internationals’ return dates and strained relations with clubs across Europe. Cipenga’s delay had a direct impact on Castellón’s day-to-day preparations.

For the country it is a landmark, for the club a sporting cost felt inside SkyFi Castalia. Even if fines are covered, Castellón feel the competitive damage is already done.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo